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Discover the largest and most powerful diesel engine in the world, with an incredible 110.000 HP and 775.376 mkgf of torque, and discover its entire history!

Written by Roberta Souza
Published 16/01/2025 às 21:11
engine - turbodiesel - ships
Photo/reproduction: Disclosure

Meet the machine that redefines naval engineering, moving ocean giants with unparalleled strength and efficiency!

The journey of diesel engines began in the late 19th century, when Rudolf diesel, a German engineer, patented his internal combustion engine in 1893.

This revolutionary engine used the principle of compression to ignite fuel, offering significantly greater efficiency compared to steam and gasoline engines of the time.

engine - turbodiesel - ships
Photo/reproduction: Disclosure

The efficiency and durability of diesel engines quickly attracted the attention of several industries, including the naval industry.

Advances in the 20th century

Over the next few decades, diesel technology evolved. In the 1920s, diesel engines began to be widely used in locomotives and ships, allowing longer journeys with fewer stops for refueling.

The introduction of direct injection in the 1930s further improved efficiency and performance, cementing diesel engines as the preferred choice for commercial and industrial applications.

The modern era of diesel engines

As demand for global shipping increased after World War II, diesel engines continued to develop.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the shipping industry began to adopt high-horsepower diesel engines, allowing larger, heavier vessels to sail the oceans.

engine - turbodiesel - ships
Photo/reproduction: Disclosure

The focus on efficiency has led to the development of advanced turbochargers and injection systems, improving performance and reducing emissions.

The emergence of the Wärtsilä-Sulzer 14RT-flex96C

In 2006, Wärtsilä launched the 14RT-flex96C, a milestone in the evolution of diesel engines. With almost 110.000 HP and an impressive torque of 775.376 mkgf, this turbodiesel engine is not only the most powerful in the world, but also redefines efficiency standards in the marine industry.

Equipped with a Common Rail injection system, it drastically reduces emissions and optimizes fuel consumption, operating at around 14.000 liters per hour.

Innovative technologies and sustainability

The Wärtsilä-Sulzer 14RT-flex96C is not only a power giant, but also an example of sustainable engineering.

engine - turbodiesel - ships
Photo/reproduction: Emma Maersk

It uses waste heat to generate electricity, transforming around 12% of the energy that would otherwise be wasted into useful energy.

This innovation is a testament to how engineering can balance power and environmental responsibility.

The impact and legacy of diesel engines

Today, more than 300 ships worldwide are equipped with engines from the RT-flex96C family, setting new standards in power and efficiency.

The Wärtsilä-Sulzer 14RT-flex96C is more than just a machine; it is a symbol of progress in diesel technology, underpinning global trade and shaping the future of shipping.

Towards new horizons in marine propulsion

The history of diesel engines is a tale of innovation and adaptation.

From the early days of Rudolf Diesel to the modern colossus that is the Wärtsilä-Sulzer 14RT-flex96C, this journey reveals human ingenuity in overcoming challenges and driving progress.

As we look to the future, diesel engine evolution continues to be a vibrant field, with promises of more sustainable and efficient innovations.

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Roberta Souza

Petroleum Engineer, postgraduate in Commissioning of Industrial Units, specialist in Industrial Corrosion. Get in touch to suggest an agenda, advertise job vacancies or advertise on our portal. We do not receive resumes

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