Proving the power of an eco-friendly solution
As part of the propulsion system’s rigorous testing process, engineers and measurement technicians from Ferretti Group Engineering Department and Rolls-Royce Power Systems observe how the yacht fares outside of laboratory conditions. The test crew onboard the yacht performs a series of manoeuvres while measurement technician Jan Leuthäußer from Rolls-Royce Power Systems watches the engine behaviour closely.
On the test stand, the mtu Series 2000 engines with IMO-3 approval performed just as well as previous IMO-2 units that didn’t have SCR. But at sea, technicians hope to confirm that the yacht’s turbochargers can handle the high exhaust gas backpressure caused not only by SCR but by the underwater exhausts typical of yachts. They’ll also be keeping an eye on the heat and noise levels produced by the SCR system.
“Of course, we're nervous,” admits Rüdiger Grau, technical lead on the development and testing of the mtu propulsion system at the Rolls-Royce Power Systems headquarters in Friedrichshafen. But relieved smiles from the Rolls-Royce test crew confirm that everything has gone to plan.
“In today's trials, the mtu 16V 2000 M97 unit showed us that it's every bit as powerful as its predecessor. And with SCR, a lot more eco-friendly,” comments Carsten Voigt, Project Manager at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
The Custom Line Testing & Delivery Supervisor Captain and his crew are particularly impressed by the propulsion system's acoustic properties. With a well-insulated engine room, the engine’s noise and vibrations were hardly perceptible on deck. “It's so important for green engines to be able to offer our customers the carefree yachting experience they're used to,” he explained.