LNG and diesel dual fuel technology - LNG and diesel dual fuel technology combines the advantages of cleaner-burning natural gas with the reliability of diesel ignition. This hybrid operation significantly cuts greenhouse gas emissions and lowers fuel costs. The technology is widely used in marine engines, heavy-duty vehicles, and power generation units seeking flexible energy solutions.

LNG and diesel dual fuel technology represents the most commercially successful and widespread application of the dual fuel concept today. In this configuration, LNG—stored cryogenically and vaporized for use—serves as the primary energy source, accounting for a vast majority of the fuel energy input. The combustion process is initiated by a small, precisely timed injection of diesel, known as the pilot fuel. This diesel injection compresses and ignites the air-gas mixture, a process termed compression ignition, which is essential for stable and controlled combustion.

This system capitalizes on the environmental benefits of LNG, which, being a relatively clean-burning fossil fuel, dramatically reduces sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter (PM) to virtually zero, while also achieving substantial reductions in carbon dioxide emissions compared to traditional heavy fuel oil.

Furthermore, low-pressure variants of this technology can meet IMO Tier III NOx limits without the need for extensive exhaust gas after-treatment. The dual-fuel capability provides an important operational safety net, allowing the engine to seamlessly switch to running on 100% diesel if the LNG supply is interrupted, thereby ensuring vessel safety and reliable power generation. This combination of environmental compliance, fuel cost savings, and operational resilience makes the technology the current benchmark for cleaner power solutions.

FAQ:

  1. In an LNG and diesel dual fuel system, what is the primary role of the small amount of diesel used?

The diesel acts as a pilot fuel, which is compressed and ignited to start the combustion of the main air and LNG fuel mixture.

  1. What are the two major environmental pollutants that are drastically reduced by using LNG as the main fuel?

Sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions are nearly eliminated when operating in gas mode.

  1. What is the significant operational advantage provided by the dual fuel capability of this technology?

The engine maintains the flexibility to seamlessly switch to operating entirely on diesel fuel, providing a necessary backup and operational resilience in case of any issues with the gas supply or infrastructure.