Milestone 1: "Requirements Completed" , led by project partner Aurelia Turbines, marks the finalization of the technical and regulatory requirements essential for the development of the innovative MARPOWER Energy Conversion System (MECS).
Rigorous requirements assessment
MARPOWER partners – including RINA Services, the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Chantiers de l’Atlantique, and Aurelia Turbines – conducted an extensive analysis of technical requirements, regulatory frameworks, and design specifications. This effort ensures compliance with both European Union (EU) and International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards.
The MARPOWER project aims to develop a gas turbine system capable of delivering 5400 kW of electrical output, complemented by a waste heat recovery system generating an additional 400 kW of power. This combined output is expected to achieve a total system efficiency well above 50%, representing a significant advancement over conventional internal combustion engines and contributing to more sustainable and efficient energy solutions. The system is designed for continuous operation, targeting an availability of 97%, with an average of one start-stop cycle per day. Operating conditions are optimized for a wide range of environments, withstanding temperatures from -40°C to +55°C and relative humidity levels below 95%.
Key system developments
The MARPOWER project will develop and prototype critical components of the energy conversion system, including:
- A high-pressure shaft arrangement equipped with active magnetic bearings (AMB) to ensure stability and precision, even on a moving platform.
- A recuperator designed to maximize energy recovery and enhance overall efficiency.
- A hydrogen combustor that enables low-emission, sustainable operation.
The system design adheres to key EU directives and maritime standards to ensure safety, performance, and environmental compliance. These include the Machinery Directive, EMC Directive, Low Voltage Directive, and Pressure Equipment Directive, alongside maritime-specific regulations from the IMO and the MARPOL Convention, which address greenhouse gas emissions reduction, energy efficiency, and safe maritime operations. Additionally, the project integrates a lifecycle approach to minimize environmental impact and optimize cost efficiency. Compliance with energy efficiency measures, such as the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP), ensures alignment with global sustainability standards.
Iterative design process and technical advancements
The design process follows an iterative approach, combining theoretical cycle calculations with practical adjustments to achieve optimal performance. Detailed design and specification work has been conducted for key components, including the combustion chamber, turbomachinery, generator, HP shaft prototype, bearing system, and recuperator. The integration of these components is aimed at maximizing electrical efficiency while maintaining operational flexibility in maritime applications.
Next steps
The successful completion of Milestone 1 was made possible through the collaborative efforts and expertise of all MARPOWER partners. Their work in defining the technical requirements, regulatory alignment, and design specifications has been instrumental in laying the foundation for the next phase of the project.
With the completion of the requirements phase, the project now progresses to prototype development. This stage will concentrate on designing and modeling critical components, including the high-pressure shaft arrangement, recuperator, and hydrogen combustor. To evaluate the performance of the AMB-suspended system under dynamic on-board conditions, simulation tests will be conducted using a dedicated moving platform.
Achieving the “Requirements Completed” milestone represents a major step forward in MARPOWER’s mission to develop high-efficiency, low-emission maritime power solutions. The consortium remains committed to delivering innovative and sustainable energy technologies for the marine industry.
In addition to the partners mentioned above, the MARPOWER project team also includes LUT University—which serves as the project coordinator—along with Alfa Laval, Politecnico di Milano, RINA Consulting, the University of Vigo, and Zabala Innovation.
Read more at https://marpowerproject.eu/milestone-1-achieved/