Refitting Superyachts in the age of IMO TIER III Legislation

From the start of 2016, all new superyacht builds will be subject to IMO TIER III legislation regarding NOX reduction from the keel laying ceremony on.

MarQuip has played a pioneering role in facilitating this implementation for new builds with its pioneering clean exhaust system.

Now, in response to requests from eco-friendly owners, the Dutch specialists are turning their attention to existing superyachts and refit projects. Detailed information on the system will be available during the Monaco show at the MarQuip stand (QAB7). 

As a leading designer and manufacturer of superyacht exhaust systems, MarQuip was well ahead of the game with respect to the new IMO emission regulations.

In 2014 it introduced an innovative solution that combines a Particle Diesel Burner, silencer/muffler for noise level compliance and, when requested, a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) unit and heat exchanger.

The system was welcomed by owners who are increasingly faced with the conflict between performance on the one hand and efficiency and environmental considerations on the other. 

“Owners are among those best placed to appreciate the beauty and fragility of the world’s seas and to contribute to their preservation,” says MarQuip’s general manager, Dennis Bravenboer.

“It is entirely their choice, however, whether to comply with the new IMO TIER III regulations on their current yacht. Thankfully, many owners are opting to respect these new rules even though they are not compulsory. Environmental awareness is rising sharply as MarQuip has seen in the requests which we receive, both directly and via owner’s representatives.” 

When refits are being made, the need for IMO TIER III compliance applies fully if the engines are modified or replaced (since 1 January 2000 and above 130 bkW).

Here too, MarQuip is ahead of the game. “Together with our partners we have carried out case studies to map how the existing fleet can continue to operate at maximum efficiency,” Bravenboer continues. “We set up a ‘ghost project’ with the help of an owner who placed his yacht at our disposal for the purposes of this research.” 

Based on extensive calculations, 3D engine room scans and equipment mock-ups, MarQuip has charted what it takes to make an existing yacht TIER III compliant using its clean exhaust system. “We can help clients by choosing the right partners, working closely together with yards and refit specialists, and by deploying our own independent service team. MarQuip also supports and coordinates the certification process when desired.”

An adjustment of this magnitude is no easy task and requires accurate and efficient work.

MarQuip prepares for a TIER III conversion by first making an on board survey: examining the existing exhaust system, engine room and tank layout, making 3D scans of the engine room and interfaces, and collecting the necessary data on design, engine performance, fuel capacity, quality and operational conditions. 

The 3D scan is then transferred into usable drawings and a new exhaust layout is designed incorporating the SCR system. MarQuip provides a report on the operational costs, a detailed quotation for design, supply, installation, commission and certification, and the preliminary planning.

“By proceeding in a clear and orderly way, we can design a solution that fits the bill in both a physical and budgetary sense,” concludes Bravenboer. “By going the extra mile in terms of R&D, the MarQuip clean exhaust system not only meets the new requirements of IMO but also the high standards of owners.”