Rolls-Royce Company has introduced a new mtu Flex SCR exhaust aftertreatment system designed to operate with mtu 4000 Series engines. This innovation promises a significant improvement in emissions management, while offering ship operators unprecedented flexibility. This advancement is crucial for navigating in areas with stringent environmental regulations.
The design and efficiency of the mtu Flex SCR system
The new mtu Flex SCR system stands out for its ability to adapt to different spaces on board, a critical factor in boat design. Compared to its predecessor, the new generation is noticeably smaller and lighter, with space savings of up to 42% and a weight reduction of almost 40%. This optimization allows for greater installation versatility in the engine room, either horizontally or vertically. In fact, the system components can be positioned in a variety of ways, depending on the specific needs of the ship.
Beyond its design, the mtu Flex SCR system is engineered for superior performance. Its selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 75% relative to IMO II standards. This capability ensures that ships meet the stringent IMO Tier III required in emission control areas such as the Baltic and North Seas. Rolls-Royce has also improved the durability of the system’s ceramic substrate, increasing its service life to 18,000 operating hours, which translates into a 15% reduction in total life-cycle costs.
The launch of this system underscores Rolls-Royce’s strategy to support its customers with sustainable solutions. Denise Kurtulus, senior vice president of Global Marine at Rolls-Royce Power Systems, noted that the system better suits customers’ needs and provides them with significant benefits when navigating in emission-controlled areas. Rolls-Royce plans to implement this technology gradually on other of its mtu engines, extending the impact of its innovation in the decarbonization of shipping.
Source and photo: Rolls-Royce
