DNV approves Caterpillar Marine’s methanol-ready engine

Classification society DNV has granted approval in principle (AiP) to US-based marine technology firm Caterpillar Marine for its methanol-ready marine main and auxiliary engines.

PHOTO: Caterpillar Marine’s methanol-ready engine. Caterpillar Marine

The engines are designated as "methanol-ready," meaning they won’t initially run on methanol upon delivery but are designed in a way to be modified into methanol dual-fuel engines in the future. This suggests they’ll likely use fossil-based marine fuels at first.

These engines will be available in 12-cylinder (up to 1901 kW) and 16-cylinder (up to 2525 kW) models and will power tugs and other vessels that need high-powered propulsion for heavy loads.

The company will provide kits to upgrade the engines for methanol use. It also aims to offer new engines specifically designed and built to burn methanol, depending on project timing and needs.

“Methanol will play an important role in the maritime industry’s energy transition efforts, and we look forward to providing vessel operators with high-quality methanol solutions,” said Caterpillar Marine’s vice president, Brad Johnson.

In May 2024, Caterpillar announced it would deploy the first set of field demonstrator methanol dual-fuel marine engines with Damen Shipyards Group in 2026.

By Tuhin Roy

Please get in touch with comments or additional info to news@engine.online