Americas News
USC Researchers Discover New Engine Technology to Reduce Ship Emissions, Bunker Costs
Researchers at the University of Southern California (USC) have discovered a more efficient method of initiating combustion in ship engines that could cut down on emissions and save on fuel costs.
Named Transient Plasma Ignition (TPI), the solution would allow companies to meet the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) emissions mandate with very few changes.
The technology reduces both nitrogen oxide (NOx) and sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions, which makes it a possible alternative for companies looking to adhere to upcoming sulfur Emission Control Area
(ECA) regulations.
"Unlike other costly emissions-reducing technology, fuel alternatives and retrofits, Transient Plasma Ignition is designed to work in current diesel engines with minimal modifications, making this technology a potential 'silver bullet' for shipping companies to meet the ECA standards," said Yannis C. Yortsos, dean of the USC Viterbi School of Engineering.
The project, which is set to go ahead with sea trials by the end of the year, was commissioned by consulting firm TCC Group.
"We are thrilled to approach the cusp of a true clean shipping solution," said Kenneth Koo, TCC Group chairman.
TPI aims to reduce fuel consumption by 3 percent, which could equal savings of up to $5,000 per day according to TCC.
"This epic endeavor strives to achieve reduction in harmful emissions and significant fuel consumption savings without additional investments into peripheral hardware such as scrubbers, chillers, hull coatings or fundamental modifications to the hull," Koo said.
In addition to existing ECAs, the IMO has also discussed the implementation of NOx Emissions Control Areas (NECAs), though establishing NECAs has thus far been up to the discretion of local states.
