Technology group Wärtsilä is to supply its latest engine, the Wärtsilä 25, for a new 44m-long stern trawler.
The equipment is scheduled for delivery during the first quarter of 2025. The Wärtsilä 25 is a medium-speed four-stroke marine engine that is designed to be futureproof, with a modular system that enables an easy upgrade for operating with future low- or zero-carbon fuels as they come to market. Available in cylinder configurations from six liters to nine liters and with a power output ranging from 1.7-3.4MW, the Wärtsilä 25 provides reliable performance as either a robust main propulsion engine or a cost-efficient and flexible auxiliary engine. The engine is available in diesel and dual-fuel versions and will also be the first four-stroke ammonia-fueled marine engine.
The vessel is being built for Faroe Islands operator Vardin and is the first of three new vessels for the Faroe Islands. The other two fishing vessels are jointly owned by Vardin and fellow Faroe Islands operator Framherji, and will also feature the Wärtsilä 25. The order was booked by Wärtsilä in February 2024.
The modular, upgradable design of the Wärtsilä 25 engine will reportedly enable Vardin to reduce fuel consumption and emissions from the first mile while providing the readiness to run on alternative fuels whenever viable. All engines will also be fitted with Wärtsilä’s Selective Catalytic Reduction system to support emissions abatement by significantly reducing the level of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas.
Sámal Joensen, CTO at Vardin, said, “The selection of a Wärtsilä 25 engine reflects our pursuit of a perfect balance between reliability, efficiency, lifecycle operating costs and sustainability. After careful consideration and thorough comparison with alternative engines, the Wärtsilä 25 emerges as the optimal solution for our vessel. Its advanced technology and reliable performance, combined with environmentally friendly features and fuel efficiency, as well as its readiness to operate with alternative fuels in the future, have made it the preferred choice for our future operations.”
Stefan Nysjö, vice president of power supply at Wärtsilä Marine, commented, “In the competitive fishing industry, costs, reliability and efficiency are central to everything, and the choice of the Wärtsilä 25 engine caters to these demanding needs. We are excited to extend our long-time relationship with Vardin and to support them in preparing for their transition to alternative fuels in the future.”
In related news, Wärtsilä will supply the methanol-fueled auxiliary engines for five container vessels for Cosco Shipping Lines and seven container vessels for the Orient Overseas Container Line. Click here to read the full story.