The most powerful electronic engine in the world, so far, and at the same time the first licensee-built ME engine, a 6S70ME-C, has been completed on time by HSD Engine Works in Korea. The order was placed in May 2002 by Samsung Shipyard on behalf of Norwegian owner Viken. The engine was presented to the public and press at a ceremony on 15 July 2003 at HSD.

Technical specifications for 6S70ME-C:
 

The list of advantages of the ME-C range of engines includes:
 

• Fully integrated electronic control including governor
• Lower SFOC
• Better performance parameters
• Appropriate fuel injection pressure and rate shaping at any load
• Improved emission characteristics
• Smokeless operation at any load
• Lower NO_x on command

These advantages are gained by the use of variable electronically controlled timing of fuel injection and exhaust valves during operation.

Other advantages include:
 

• Easy change of operating mode during operation
• Simplicity of mechanical system with wellproven traditional fuel injection technology familiar to any crew
• Engine Control System with more precise timing, giving better engine balance with equalised thermal load in and between cylinders
• Improved engine diagnostic systems for longer time between overhauls
• Lower rpm possible for continuous operation and manoeuvring
• Better acceleration, astern and crash stop performance
• Fully integrated Alpha Lubricating Cylinder Units
• Up-gradable software and hardware for the lifetime of the engine.

It is a natural consequence of the above that many more features and operating modes are feasible with our fully integrated control system.

The success story of the ME range of engines is supported by the continued good service record of the first ME engine, the 6L60ME on Norwegian owner Odfjell’s M/T Bow Cecil.

The M/T Bow Cecil has now been in operation with this engine configuration for more than 13,000 hours (24 months) and no problems have occured.

The ME range of engines is beginning to make its impact on the market. The reference list now includes nearly all engine sizes from 50 to 98 cm bores.