Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) today announced the start of a demonstration test of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) system installed on the diesel engine used for power generation on an MOL Group-operated ocean-going vessel. This is the world’s first application of the self-cleaning DPF on an ocean-going ship.
With research support from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK), MOL and Akasaka Diesels Ltd. have jointly developed a DPF system for marine diesel engines, which run on C heavy oil. The initiative is part of ClassNK’s program to support joint research and development with industry and academia. MOL conducted a DPF demonstration test in 2010 using the main engine of a ferry serving coastal areas in Japan.
Gear Up!
The technology is part of MOL’s midterm management plan Gear Up! MOL that seeks to reduce air pollution and explores various technologies that reduce the environmental impact of shipping.
Features of the DPF System
This system incorporates a filter that relies on silicon carbide ceramic fibers. The filter collects particulate matter (PM) when exhaust gas goes through it. It can collect over eighty per cent of PM produced by the engine, significantly reducing black smoke emissions. It is also a self-cleaning system that automatically combusts and eliminates PM buildup in the filter. This allows for continual operation without clogging of the filter, and requires no maintenance by seafarers.
Demonstration Test
The test is scheduled for about one year (operating time: about 4000 hours) to verify the system’s PM collection performance. After that, its durability will be assessed. The test started in November 2011, and the DPF system has already operated smoothly for over 500 hours.
Picture: Outline of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) system for marine diesel engines that use C heavy oil
