OceanSphereENGINES

12W31DF

Main Engine 4-Stroke · Main Engines (4-Stroke)

Technical data from manufacturer or class sources · not yet verified by a person​‍​‍⁠‌‌⁠‌‍‌​‌​​‍‍​⁠​
7,320 kWPower
12Cylinders
310 mmBore
430 mmStroke

This engine is commonly found in large commercial vessels operating in international shipping lanes, where it provides reliable and efficient propulsion. The Wärtsilä 12W31DF, a dual-fuel engine capable of running on LNG, HFO, or MGO, delivers a power output of 7320 kW at 750 rpm. Its L configuration with 12 cylinders, a bore of 310 mm, and a stroke of 430 mm ensures robust performance. The engine features two-stage turbocharging with intercooling and common rail direct injection for optimal fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Certified to Tier III standards, it operates efficiently across a range of fuels, enhancing operational flexibility. However, common issues such as poor combustion at low loads, carbon deposit accumulation, and crankcase oil mist build-up can arise, necessitating regular maintenance and monitoring. Wärtsilä offers upgrades like the Slow Steaming Upgrade Kit to mitigate low-load operation issues, ensuring continuous reliable operation.

Specifications

Technical data.reference — unverified

Do you have the manufacturer datasheet for this model? Send it with the enquiry form — we check it and name the source.

Cylinder power610 kW/cyl (diesel)
Mean effective pressure (BMEP)30 bar
SFOC (diesel)167.7 g/kWh (optimal point)
Weight (8V31)~57.1 tonnes (dry, diesel)
Weight (16V31)~89–92.5 tonnes (dry, diesel)
Piston speed10.75 m/s
TurbochargingTwo-stage turbocharging with intercooling
Fuel injectionCommon rail direct injection
Valve layout2 inlet, 2 exhaust valves per cylinder
ConfigurationL
Speed (rpm)750
Fuel TypeDual-Fuel LNG/HFO/MGO
TechnologyTier III Dual-Fuel
Power (kW)7320
Inspection

Inspector Detail ✓ verified

Common issues

  • Poor combustion and carbon deposit accumulation in cylinders due to low-load operation
  • Turbocharger fouling and reduced efficiency
  • Fuel system leaks and contamination, particularly with dual-fuel LNG/HFO/MGO operation
  • Cylinder liner and piston ring wear, potentially leading to increased oil consumption
  • Exhaust valve and seat wear, affecting engine performance and emissions
  • Fuel injector coking and nozzle wear, impacting combustion efficiency

Inspection checklist

  • Cylinder head and valve condition
  • Piston and ring condition
  • Cylinder liner condition and wear
  • Turbocharger condition and performance
  • Fuel system integrity and leak checks
  • Exhaust system condition and emissions monitoring
  • Lubrication system condition and oil analysis
  • Cooling system condition and performance
  • Dual-fuel system checks, including LNG/HFO/MGO fuel lines and valves

Service intervals

oil_change400-600 hours
fuel_filter_replacement1000-1500 hours
air_filter_replacement500-1000 hours
turbocharger_inspection2000-3000 hours
cylinder_head_overhaul10000-15000 hours

Typical wear limits

cylinder_liner0.5-1.0 mm wear limit
piston_ring0.5-1.0 mm wear limit
exhaust_valve0.5-1.0 mm wear limit
fuel_injector0.1-0.5 mm wear limit

Ranges are typical for this design class. Always confirm against the manufacturer documentation for your serial number.

Critical spares

  • Cylinder liners
  • Piston rings
  • Exhaust valves and seats
  • Fuel injectors
  • Turbocharger components
  • LNG/HFO/MGO fuel system components
  • Cylinder head gaskets

Safety

  • Risk of explosion or fire due to fuel system leaks or improper operation
  • Exposure to hazardous materials, such as diesel fuel or LNG
  • High-pressure system risks, including turbocharger and fuel system components
  • Electrical shock or arc flash hazards from engine electrical systems

Class survey

Class surveyors typically check for compliance with Tier III emissions regulations, verify proper operation and maintenance of dual-fuel systems, and inspect for signs of wear or damage on critical components

Estimated lifetime: 30000-50000 hours

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