Caterpillar MaK Engines Receive Dual Fuel Solutions

Caterpillar has announced new conversion solutions for MaK engines based on alcohol. The dual fuel conversion for M 43 engines is designed to operate on up to 95% methanol or ethanol by volume, which can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 80%.

The fuel blending conversion allows operators to mix up to 35% methanol or ethanol with marine diesel oil (MDO), marine gas oil, or equivalent biofuel, achieving a GHG emissions reduction of up to 20% for M 20 to VM 43 engines. Both approaches support the sustainability initiatives of vessel owners and comply with the FuelEU Maritime Regulations for 2050.

Existing M 32 and M 43 engines are being converted into systems capable of operating on methanol and ethanol, thanks to high-pressure direct injection (HPDI) dual fuel conversion technology. The fuel blending solution is specifically designed for diesel engines from M 20 to VM 43. This allows operators to seamlessly switch between methanol or ethanol and diesel fuel, providing flexibility to meet annual fleet sustainability goals. It also offers operators important flexibility in fuel selection from port to port while maintaining the engines' ability to run on biofuels.

Given the high costs of permanently decommissioning a vessel or building a new one, the kits represent a cost-effective alternative, allowing operators to leverage existing assets and meet changing industry requirements with minimal disruption. After installation, engine performance and maintenance intervals remain unchanged, supporting ease of ownership.