Wärtsilä Corporation has extended its NextDF technology to the Wärtsilä 46TS-DF dual-fuel engine, marking the third engine model to incorporate this feature, according to the company's release.
Operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG), the 46TS-DF engine with NextDF reduces methane emissions to below 1.4% of fuel use across all load points, reaching as low as 1.1% in a wide load range.
This performance is nearly three times lower than the default methane slip factor of 3.1% specified in the FuelEU Maritime and IMO Lifecycle Guidelines for Otto-cycle four-stroke dual-fuel engines.
The NextDF feature enhances combustion control and optimizes engine performance, also minimizing nitrogen oxide (NOx) and CO₂ emissions.
The Wärtsilä 46TS-DF engine, launched in 2022, features two-stage turbocharging, delivering high efficiency and power density across various operational ranges. It is designed for retrofitting with sustainable fuels as they become available.
The development of the 46TS-DF with NextDF was part of the EU co-funded GREEN RAY project.
The initial installation is planned for the cruise ship MSC World Asia, under construction by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France, for MSC Cruises.
Previously, Wärtsilä introduced NextDF technology to its 31DF and 25DF engines in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. The company focuses on sustainable technology and services to enhance environmental and economic performance. As of 2024, Wärtsilä employed approximately 18,300 professionals across more than 230 locations in 77 countries, with net sales totaling EUR 6.4 billion.
Chantiers de l’Atlantique is a French shipyard located in Saint-Nazaire, specializing in the construction of cruise ships, naval vessels, and offshore structures.
MSC Cruises is a global cruise line headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It is part of the MSC Group, a leading global shipping and logistics conglomerate.