“The electronics system used in the engine is one very important reason for the engine’s high operating safety and reliability. The EDC system continuously monitors and controls the engine, enabling it to always operate under optimal conditions. The system also includes a number of safeguard functions that dramatically reduce the risk of engine damage,” says Anders Hård, who is D12 project leader at Volvo Penta.
Easy to operate and safe
Torque – engine output – is wholly decisive for operation at low speed. The new D12 has slightly more than 50% greater torque than its predecessor, and the captains of vessels where the test installations have been conducted are highly satisfied with the improved operating characteristics the new engine provides.
Low operating cost and low emissions
For demanding commercial applications, the engine’s operating life, fuel consumption and service costs are wholly decisive for the overall economy. The new D12 has efficient combustion due to its unit injectors that operate under extremely high pressure, up to 1,800 bar, five-hole injection nozzles and the EDC system’s precision control. Extensive test operations and experience from other Volvo companies demonstrate that the D12 has a very long anticipated service life, with simple, uncomplicated service.
Emission levels are extremely low due to efficient combustion and the EDC system’s precision engine control. Another function is that the fresh-water cooled charged-air cooler has been connected with the engine’s cooling system to avoid unnecessary cooling of the charge air, enabling reduced exhaust emissions when idling. The D12 fulfills all existing emission stipulations governing commercial operation and also the upcoming European and US standards.
Totally electronic engine
The Electronic Diesel Control, EDC, provides precision engine control and increased safety due to a number of information providers and an advanced central unit which continuously monitors all functions. All connections are plug-in type and effectively protected to stand up to a marine environment.
Quality
An engine that must operate around the clock, not infrequently in the worst conceivable conditions, must of course be sturdy in design. The basis for the D12 is a very strong, cast engine block.
To ensure long service life, cooling is important. The D12 has fresh-water cooling in a closed system for both engine and charged-air cooler. The cooling-water filter has a corrosion additive that facilitates for long intervals between replacements. The cooling-system volume is also sizable, enabling the connection of a keel cooling system. The pistons are oil-cooled, with the entire cooling system monitored by the EDC system. If the engine temperature rises excessively, the EDC system limits output to prevent any damage to the engine.
The D12 is manufactured at Volvo’s engine plant in Skövde. This is one of the world’s most highly automated diesel plants, with engines built with exacting precision. The engines are made adapted for marine applications at the Volvo Penta plant in Göteborg, with each engine being test-operated with all extra equipment, controls, instruments, etc. mounted.
Comprehensive testing program
The D12 underwent a highly comprehensive testing program prior to its introduction. Tests in laboratories have been combined with tests at sea at Volvo Penta’s own testing center in Göteborg, and a test installation on a ferry in regular traffic. Overall, 15,000 hours have been expended in the laboratory and 18,000 hours at sea. The distance at sea is the equivalent of eight circumnavigations of the earth.
Technical data
D12 in three different versions for marine propulsion
| D12-550 | D12-450 | D12-400 | |
| Cylinders | in-line 6 | in-line 6 | in-line 6 |
| No. of valves | 24 | 24 | 24 |
| Displacement | 12.1 liters | 12.1 liters | 12.1 liters |
| Crankshaft output | 550 hp/405 kW | 450 hp/331 kW | 400 hp/294 kW |
| Max. torque crankshaft | 2,256 nm | 2,056 nm | 1,858 nm |
| Dry weight excl. reversing gear | 1,400 kg | 1,400 kg | 1,400 kg |
| Rating * | 2 | 1 | 1 |
* 1 = Heavy duty commercial
* 2 = Medium duty commercial
D12 for marine auxiliary and generating sets:
| Output | 370 kW/60 Hz |
| 310 kW/50 Hz |
020416
For additional information, please contact:
Ann-Charlotte Emegård, AB Volvo Penta
Tel: +46 31-668 418