OceanSphereENGINES
Pielstick

18VPC4.2B

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

Technical data from manufacturer or class sources · not yet verified by a person​‍​‍⁠‍‌​⁠‌⁠‍⁠‍​⁠‍‍‍​
18Cylinders
570 mmBore
660 mmStroke

The Pielstick 18VPC4.2B is an 18‑cylinder V‑type, mechanically injected medium‑speed diesel engine delivering roughly 27 MW (≈36,200 hp) for main propulsion of large ocean‑going vessels.

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.

ConfigurationV
Speed (rpm)400
Fuel TypeHFO
TechnologyMechanical
Inspection

Inspector Detail ✓ verified

Common issues

  • Excessive cylinder liner wear due to poor fuel quality or inadequate maintenance
  • Charge air leakage leading to reduced engine performance and increased fuel consumption
  • Main bearing wear caused by misalignment or inadequate lubrication
  • Fuel pump failure resulting from worn or damaged components
  • Turbocharger fouling or damage from foreign objects or poor maintenance
  • Crankshaft deflection or vibration due to misalignment or worn components
  • Piston ring or skirt damage from overheating or poor lubrication

Inspection checklist

  • Cylinder head and valve condition
  • Piston and ring condition
  • Crankshaft and main bearing condition
  • Fuel pump and injector condition
  • Turbocharger and charge air system condition
  • Lubrication system condition and oil quality
  • Cooling system condition and temperature monitoring
  • Exhaust gas system condition and emissions monitoring
  • Starting air system condition and compressor performance

Service intervals

oil_change1000-1500 hours
fuel_filter_change500-1000 hours
air_filter_change1000-2000 hours
cylinder_liner_overhaul12000-18000 hours
major_overhaul30000-40000 hours

Typical wear limits

cylinder_liner0.5-1.0 mm wear limit
piston_ring0.2-0.5 mm wear limit
main_bearing0.1-0.2 mm wear limit
crankshaft0.1-0.2 mm deflection limit

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

Critical spares

  • Cylinder liners and piston rings
  • Main bearings and crankshaft seals
  • Fuel pumps and injectors
  • Turbocharger components and charge air system parts
  • Lubrication system components and oil filters
  • Cooling system components and heat exchangers
  • Starting air system components and compressors

Safety

  • High-pressure fuel system leaks or ruptures
  • Charge air system leaks or blockages leading to engine stall or explosion
  • Crankcase explosion due to inadequate ventilation or ignition sources
  • Electrical system malfunctions or arcing leading to fire or explosion

Class survey

Class surveyor typically checks for compliance with classification society rules and regulations, including verification of maintenance records, inspection of critical components, and review of safety procedures and protocols

Estimated lifetime: 30000-40000 hours

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