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Leading power and automation technology group, ABB, has designed turbochargers that are now powering the largest ships in the world and are designed to be help lower fuel consumption.

First came the China Shipping Container Lines (CSCL) Globe with a 19,100-TEU capacity, completing its maiden voyage in February 2015. This was followed by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Oscar at 19,224 TEU. Both have engines incorporating ABB-designed turbochargers and are each the first of a series of vessels to launch in the coming months also featuring turbochargers designed by ABB.

The largest vessels of any type in service, the CSCL Globe and MSC Oscar are the only container ships in operation with capacity of over 19,000 TEU. In addition to their design, which allows this record-breaking cargo capacity, they host the largest engines on any ship. "This advanced engine technology, coupled with ABB high-efficiency turbochargers improves engine efficiency, lowers fuel consumption and cuts emissions," says ABB.

The turbochargers - designed by ABB, and fitted under license by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) on both vessels - are described by ABB as having "a very positive effect on fuel consumption", a key issue for large ships that also face the challenge of lowering emissions.

Each ship is equipped with MAN diesel engines. The CSCL Globe is fitted with three ABB A185-L turbochargers, while The MSC Oscar features ABB 180-L turbochargers. In addition, the auxiliary engines on both were designed by ABB, fitted under license by HHI. The two ships are also the first of a series of vessels that are to feature the same engine and turbocharger configuration.

Arie Smits, Senior General Manager, ABB Turbocharging, Switzerland, remarked: "Container vessels have almost doubled in capacity over the last five years, with the cost of fuel ensuring that increased engine efficiency will remain a high priority for owners and operators. Our A100-L series of turbochargers was developed based on extensive feedback from marine industry customers. Meeting the specific requirements of ships of this size, they feature technology widely proven on the smallest to largest two-stroke marine diesel engines including reduced fuel consumption and compliance with IMO Tier I, Tier II and Tier III limits and NOx emissions.

"We are very pleased that ABB plays a role in powering both of these huge vessels, with even larger ships following closely behind."

The company added: "With a global network of marine service centers and a comprehensive offering of marine systems and solutions that meet high safety and environmental requirements, ABB delivers reliability, power and productivity to marine customers all over the world."