WinGD, the Swiss marine power company, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving its hundredth order for Variable Compression Ratio (VCR) technology, specifically designed for its X-DF dual-fuel engines. This cutting-edge technology, launched in June 2023, has rapidly gained popularity, particularly in the LNG carrier segment, demonstrating its importance in enhancing engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Milestone Order and Industry Adoption
The landmark hundredth order was placed as part of a series of four LNG carriers commissioned by a Middle Eastern shipowner, to be constructed at a shipyard in Korea. This order adds to the growing list of vessels that have chosen X-DF engines with VCR technology, solidifying its status as the preferred choice in the LNG carrier market. Beyond LNG carriers, the technology is also being adopted across various segments, including pure car and truck carriers, bulk carriers, and container ships. Nearly 10 different shipowners have opted for this innovative technology in conjunction with their X-DF engines.
Market Response and Future Potential
Volkmar Galke, WinGD’s Director of Sales, expressed enthusiasm about the rapid adoption of VCR technology, noting that surpassing a hundred orders within the first year is a remarkable achievement. He emphasized that this milestone reflects the maritime industry’s growing interest in technologies that not only reduce the environmental impact of gas-fueled engines but also ensure no compromise in diesel engine performance. WinGD sees even greater potential for this technology to benefit the industry in the future.
Technical Advantages of VCR Technology
The Variable Compression Ratio (VCR) technology allows for dynamic adjustment of the engine’s compression ratio based on the type of fuel being used, engine load, and combustion characteristics. This adaptability means that higher compression ratios can be utilized when operating on diesel, enhancing efficiency. Conversely, when running on LNG, the compression can be fine-tuned to optimize efficiency and minimize emissions. This hydraulic solution marks the first time dynamic compression ratio adjustment has been applied in a marine engine.
Complementary Technologies and Industry Impact
VCR technology is the second major enhancement introduced by WinGD under its X‑DF2.0 platform, following the earlier launch of Intelligent Control by Exhaust Recycling (iCER). Both technologies have been well received, particularly in the LNG carrier segment, where they have been widely deployed. Recent tests have demonstrated that X-DF engines equipped with iCER and VCR technologies offer lower fuel consumption and emissions compared to competing low-pressure engine technologies. When assessed on a system level, which includes main and auxiliary engines as well as fuel supply, these engines deliver a fuel consumption and emissions profile comparable to high-pressure, Diesel cycle two-stroke engines, while also offering a capital expenditure advantage due to the lower cost of the required auxiliary systems.
Conclusion
With over 7.5 million running hours of reliable service on the X-DF engine platform, combined with the advancements brought by VCR and iCER technologies, WinGD’s X-DF engines have become the leading choice for the LNG carrier segment. These engines are now increasingly competitive across other vessel segments as well, proving their value against high-pressure engine alternatives.
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Source: WinGD
