Right from the start, discussions were held concerning the replacement of the engines. The two engines on board were prototypes. They had been designed and installed before the year 2000. Unfortunately, they no longer complied with anti-pollution standards. Given the sensitive nature of polar environments, they had to be replaced to reduce emissions and enable the ship to continue to meet the new standards.
Two new 400 hp Cummins engines were purchased from Mecatlantic. These engines were fitted with selective catalytic reduction technology using AdBlue exhaust fluid. This technology reduces the harmful gases released into the atmosphere. The new engines are therefore EIAPP (Engine International Air Pollution Prevention) certified and comply with MARPOL nitrogen oxide emission standards.
A design office has redesigned the layout to accommodate the new engines. The AML shipyard went into action, preparing the engine room to accommodate the new engines by installing new supports, insulation, ventilation, exhausts, etc.
On October 19th, 2023, the two new engines were installed. A few additional modifications were required to install and realign the two new shaft lines before the propellers could be reinstalled. FOREL is now equipped with new engines which will be tested over the coming months before embarking on its 1st polar expedition.
