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Caterpillar's MaK 16 M 46 DF dual-fuel engine, along with its LNG supply and handling system, are to be installed on four new cruise ships, two apiece under construction at the Meyer Werft Papenburg (Germany) and Turku (Finland) shipyards.

According to Caterpillar, research and development carried out at its Rostock facility has demonstrated the efficient operation of LNG main engines at loads of less than 20 percent for the first time. Additionally, Caterpillar points out that the MaK M 46 DF engine can be started by using LNG from the very beginning, thus avoiding diesel engine-specific emissions.

"This development is a key consideration for cruise operators who wish to use LNG, rather than risk smoke from the funnel or soot on deck, whilst starting main engines and manoeuvring in port waters," remarked Dr Frank Starke, Managing Director of Caterpillar Motoren.

Caterpillar says its engines offer a number of technical innovations including better fuel consumption, fast load response and long intervals between overhauls. They also use the latest generation of the Cat Engine Control Units (ECU), which in conjunction with in-house software are designed to enable profile-specific optimisation. Caterpillar is also providing its Asset Intelligence (AI) technology and service, which leverages remote monitoring, automated data analytics and advisory services in order to provide high uptime and low operating costs.

Caterpillar Marine now offers a range of LNG propulsion solutions - from shore-side bunkering to on-board storage; from bunker tanks via LNG handling and treatment to dual-fuel engines with automation systems.

"From a single source, we provide the complete system for ship operators who wish to capitalise on the benefits of LNG as a marine fuel," said Ulf Hannemann, Caterpillar Marine cruise and ferry segment manager. "We have successfully completed a number of diesel to dual-fuel conversions in the commercial shipping sector and our pipeline of newbuild installations continues to grow."

"However, it is in the cruise sector that we see the greatest opportunities," Hannemann continued. "Clean fuel for cruise vessels is essential in both operational and business strategy terms."

Caterpillar's sales and service partner Zeppelin Power Systems, headquartered in Hamburg, is managing the new four-ship project, including supply, commissioning and service.

"As a trusted Caterpillar sales and servicer partner for over 60 years with extensive experience in power solutions, we offer our customers individual and highly efficient solutions for marine applications," said Volker Possoegel, Zeppelin Power Systems chief executive officer. "With our excellent sales and service organization, we are looking forward to providing the new flagships with comprehensive engineering and service competence to ensure the highest uptime."