Wärtsilä to supply propulsion for world’s largest aluminium catamaran
4th September 2022
The technology group Wärtsilä will supply the engines, waterjets, and fuel storage and supply system for a new high speed catamaran ferry.
The vessel is being built at the Incat yard in Tasmania, Australia on behalf of Argentinian ferry operator, Buquebus.
Having an overall length of 130m, a width of 32m and the capacity to carry 2,100 passengers and 226 cars, it will be the largest aluminium catamaran ever built by Incat. The order with Wärtsilä was placed in July 2022.
The vessel will operate between Argentina and Uruguay with Wärtsilä’s 31 dual-fuel engine technology using primarily LNG fuel produced at Buquebus own LNG plant.
The vessel will also incorporate shaft e-motors powered via the main engine gearboxes taking further advantage of Wärtsilä’s LNG technology.
With LNG, the minimised emissions of CO2, nitrous oxides (NOx), sulphur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter will make the ferry Tier III compliant and able to operate in emission control areas (ECAs).
The full scope of supply comprises four Wärtsilä 31DF dual-fuel engines, four Wärtsilä WXJ1500SR waterjets, and two Wärtsilä LNGPac fuel storage, supply and propulsion control systems. The equipment will be delivered to the yard commencing in mid-2023.
Wärtsilä has a long-standing relationship with Incat, a global leader in aluminium ship technology. Incat provides optimal lightweight ship solutions for ferry operators, special service providers, and military applications.
The Wärtsilä 31DF is the most powerful engine in its class. It has a power output ranging from 4.6 to 9.6 MW at 720 and 750 rpm and features exceptional fuel economy while maintaining outstanding performance across the entire operating range.
The higher output per cylinder provides a compact footprint and a cost-efficient installation. The diesel version of the Wärtsilä 31 has been recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s most efficient 4-stroke diesel engine.
