---

Wartsila has been contracted to supply the engines, propellers, and fuel supply systems for four new tanker vessels. The ships will run on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and diesel, and are being built at the Scheepswerf Ferus Smit yard in the Netherlands for Swedish firm Erik Thun AB.

The order, which was booked in the first quarter of 2017, follows a previous order made by JT Cement - a joint venture between Erik Thun AB of Sweden and KG Jebsen Cement of Norway - with Wartsila in 2014 for a six-cylinder Wartsila 34DF main engine, making it the first bulk carrier to adopt Wartsila's multi-fuel capability. The second cement carrier in the series also featured Wartsila dual-fuel propulsion technology.

The recently ordered 115-metre-long coastal tankers feature a 'next generation' design focusing on high energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

The full scope of supply for each of the four vessels includes a six-cylinder Wartsila 34DF dual-fuel main engine, a Wartsila LNGPac fuel supply system, a Wartsila gas valve unit (GVU), and a controllable pitch propeller (CPP) with HP nozzle. The equipment is slated for delivery to the yard commencing in 2018.

A notable feature of the Wartsila fuel system to be supplied is its open-type Tank Connection Space (TCS), which is designed to allow natural ventilation. The benefits of this system are said to be its reduced weight, a combined cargo heating medium that controls the temperature both inside the TCS as well as for evaporating the LNG, less installation work for the yard, and a reduced power supply requirement.

"The fuel efficiency of the Wartsila 34DF engine, whether in gas or diesel mode, was a prime consideration in its selection for these 'next generation' tankers. Similarly, the successful track record of both the CPP and LNGPac solutions, and the proven efficiencies that they have demonstrated, were convincing arguments in our favour," said Aaron Bresnahan, Vice President, Sales, Wartsila Marine Solutions.

"We have worked closely with Wartsila on many projects for more than 45 years, and we recognise their technical expertise and the reliability of their products. We are pleased, therefore, to have Wartsila as a partner for this project where efficiency and sustainability are the key essentials," remarked Anders Kallson, Managing Director, Erik Thun AB.

Image: The Wartsila 34df dual-fuel engine.