Have you ever wondered how mega diesel engines are built?
The documentary Exceptional Engineering: Mega Diesel Engine gives a fascinating insight into a mammoth engine that was made in Germany by MTU (Engine and Turbine Union). A brand of Rolls-Royce Power Systems, MTU specialises in large diesel engines and propulsion systems. Many of these mega diesel engines power ships, railways and heavy and military vehicles. It is not uncommon for these systems to achieve drives of up to 12,000 hp. The engines are produced in the region of Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance. ‘Made in Germany’ engines have been used across the world, however.
Exceptional Engineering – Building Mega Diesel Engines
In this documentary, some of the world’s biggest and most powerful engines are showcased. The documentary outlines how these engines are built. It also documents how the engines are used in various applications, including marine vessels.
A large number of mega engines are manufactured in Germany. The Exceptional Engines documentary focuses on a specific type of engine that was produced in the Engine and Turbine Union halls of Friedrichshafen. This engine is part of the MTU 16-cylinder Series 8000 engine.
MTU has a long history of producing marine engines in an extremely high power class. This group and the Naval Group (previously known as DCNS before 2017) have develop a close partnership lasting over two decades. This partnership has produced a total of roughly 30 submarines and surface vessels that have been built by the Naval Group. Oceans across the globe have vessels featuring MTU engines.
The Series 8000 includes a wide power range, from 7,200 all the way up to 10,000 kW. Since this documentary was produced, the Series 8000 has expanded even further.
These engines have a low operating cost, with a high power density and a surprisingly low environmental impact, meeting IMO Tier II and EPA Tier II emissions limits. The engine has a height of 11.48 feet (3.5 metres), with a weight of 48 tons. A large number of cylinders allows it to reach a large capacity of fuel used per hour. This makes it ideal for sectors such as shipping, which require a high level of power and fuel capacity in order to stay on the water for long periods.
This documentary is a great watch to show the work, design and planning required to build some of the world’s largest engines. Watch the Exceptional Engineering: Mega Diesel Engine documentary to find out how these super engines are built.