Operating the engine pre-lubrication pump with frequency converter : minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact

Abstract

The objective of this thesis was to investigate the possibility of minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact by operating the engine pre-lubrication pump with frequency converter. This topic is important because the marine industry is undergoing continuous change to minimize the environmental impact by implementing solutions that decrease its carbon footprint.

The methods used in the thesis were functional tests with a frequency converter in the pre-lubrication pump application. The tests were performed in the engine laboratory at Vaasa on an actual engine. The test results were additionally compared to the available data of the pre-lubrication pump’s actual usage in operating vessels to discover possible energy consumption minimization in different types of vessels.

Testing was successful and energy consumption can be minimized significantly with a variable frequency converter. This also has an impact on the environment, as reduced energy consumption leads to lower emissions.