Rolls-Royce, Lürssen to Overhaul mtu Propulsion Systems

Rolls-Royce Power System and Lürssen Yacht Refit & Services signed a framework agreement to regulate co-operation in mtu propulsion system overhauls and improve services for yacht customers. Currently, technicians and specialists from both companies overhaul the entire mtu propulsion system—from engine to the NautIQ ship automation system. This joint package prioritizes a speedy refit process to return the ship to its owner.

The framework agreement reorganizes the cooperation, accelerates processes, simplifies procedures, and defines common standards for overhaul work. It will reduce time spent on engine and propulsion system overhaul work, particularly for mtu Series 4000 engines. The contract also ensures faster, more flexible deployment of Rolls-Royce specialists at Lürssen’s shipyard and increased spare part availability. Lürssen technicians will be trained to work on mtu engines in alignment with Rolls-Royce standards.

“This partnership between two suppliers of yacht construction and propulsion creates unique conditions to play a role in an attractive international market - and is fully in line with our strategic focus to strengthen the marine business,” said Denise Kurtulus, Senior Vice President at Global Marine, Rolls-Royce Power Systems.

Rolls-Royce and Lurssen technicians refitting yacht engine; Image Credits: Rolls-Royce

In addition to new-build yachts equipped with mtu propulsion systems, Lürssen offers customers refit solutions in the overhaul, modernization, and conversion area for yachts up to 200 meters-long. Yacht refits also offer an opportunity to equip propulsion systems with sustainable technologies, contributing to the energy transition through lower-carbon operation.

Rolls-Royce Propulsion News

Earlier this September, Rolls-Royce integrated the mtu Series 1163 and 8000 large engines, in a power range between 4,800 – 10,000 kW, with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems in compliance with emissions stage IMO III. It allows ship operators to enter the Emission Control Areas, such as the Baltic, North Sea, and offshore North America. Rolls-Royce also approved these models for sustainable fuel operation with HVO.

The system reduces NOx emissions by 75% over IMO II limits. It is actively controlled, with upstream and downstream emissions continuously measured. Measurement ensures optimum, compliant exhaust gas aftertreatment and minimum dosage of reducing agent. Rolls-Royce can install the SCR system both horizontally and vertically and can be adapted to a variety of ship designs and layouts. The system is also designed to be shock-proof for military applications and, if required, is available with bypass to maintain safe engine operation and unrestricted propulsion power under extreme shock conditions and long low-load periods.

In August 2024, Rolls-Royce began testing the F130 engine in a dual-pod configuration for the U.S. Air Force B-52J Stratofortress. Testing at NASA Stennis helped Rolls-Royce meet initial testing goals and engine-delivery pace set by the Air Force. Test data informs the production configuration for the F130 engine’s CDR, scheduled for fall 2024.

The tests produced performance data, validating Rolls-Royce’s predictions on crosswind conditions and de-risking F130 integration on the B-52J. The engines will extend B-52 aircraft life by 30 years, as their durability enables it to remain on wing for the remainder of aircraft life. Sea-level testing, conducted in the refurbished Test Cell 114, will run the F130’s initial software release. Rolls-Royce also successfully performed rapid twin pod tests.