TECHNICAL

BULLETIN

Wärtsilä 2-stroke RT-161

Technical Services Issue 1, 28 March 2014

Cylinder lubrication
Next opportunity

Information to all Owners and Operators of Concerned products/components

Wärtsilä 2-stroke engines All Wärtsilä 2-stroke engines.

Current situation
Reliable operation of piston running
components requires attention and active
adaptation of the lubrication to actual
running conditions.

Preventive action
To ensure the best performance and
operation of Wärtsilä 2-stroke engines, it is
important to read the information and
follow the guidelines about cylinder
lubrication stated in this Technical Bulletin.

All available recommendations for Wärtsilä

2-stroke engines about cylinder lubrication
from various former Service Bulletins are
combined in this Technical Bulletin.

Note
This Technical Bulletin supersedes
Service Bulletin RT-18.4, Technical
Bulletin RT-113 as well as Service Letter
RT-93.
The Data & Specifications bulletin RT-138
and Appendix 1 RT-138_A1 about
lubricating oils will remain. RT-138 and
Appendix 1 are now updated with the
latest validated lubricating oils – cylinder
and system oils – and recommendations
about the application areas of the oils
including sample analysis.

Wärtsilä Switzerland Ltd. Tel (24h): +41 52 262 80 10

PO Box 414
CH-8401 Winterthur technicalsupport.chts@wartsila.com
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 2 / 20

Contents
Page
1 Introduction 2
2 Base feed lubrication, engine operated above 60% CMCR 6
3 Sulphur dependent lubrication, engines operated below 60% CMCR 6
3.1 PLS system, sulphur dependent lubrication 8
3.2 CLU-3 system, sulphur dependent lubrication 10
4 “Safeguard” sulphur dependent lubrication, engines operated below 60% CMCR 12
4.1 PLS system, “safeguard” sulphur dependent lubrication 13
4.2 CLU-3 system, “safeguard” sulphur dependent lubrication 15
5 Lubrication during running-in 17
6 Cylinder lubrication: Blending on Board 18
7 Appendix 19
8 Limitation 19
8.1 Contracting parties to the Paris Convention 19
9 Contacts 20
9.1 How to contact Wärtsilä 20
9.2 Contact details for emergency issues 20

1 Introduction
This Technical Bulletin RT-161 provides information and guidance concerning the
cylinder lubrication of Wärtsilä 2-stroke engines.

NOTE:
• The new Technical Bulletin RT-161 provides information about cylinder lubrication
and sulphur dependency during low load operation. It also provides new safeguard
feed rates in the event of a very corrosive environment.
• This Technical Bulletin RT-161 supersedes Service Bulletin RT-18.4, dated
09.06.2009 entitled “Running-in of Cylinder Liners and Piston Rings”. The new
Technical Bulletin provides up to date guidance for the completion of running-in.
• This Technical Bulletin also supersedes the Technical Bulletin RT-113, Issue 3,
dated 10.04.2012, entitled “Sulphur-dependent cylinder oil feed rate”.
• The Service Letter RT-93, Issue 1, dated 09.07.2010, entitled “Piston running
behaviour at low load operation” is also superseded.
• The Data & Specifications bulletin RT-138 entitled “Lubricating oils” will remain. It is
now updated with the latest validated lubricating oils – cylinder and system oils –
and recommendations about the application areas of the lubricants including sample
analysis.

The piston running behaviour of 2-stroke engines is exhibiting an ever growing

complexity. The key internal factors are the changes of operation patterns (e.g. slow
steaming). New tuning options including fuel saving retrofit packages might also be
considered. On the other hand, the very wide range of cylinder lubricant quality, the
use of various fuels due to complex environmental regulations and the corresponding
solutions constitute external factors that may significantly influence the piston running
behaviour of the engine.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 3 / 20

In this Technical Bulletin, the correct setting of the cylinder lubricating system should
allow the following goals to be met:

• Ensure the optimal and fit for purpose supply of lubricant to the piston ring – cylinder
liner system, while keeping it at the minimum.
• Ensure the reliable operation of piston running components.
• Ensure the achievement and/or the extension of the time between overhauls of the
piston running components.

Investigations have shown, that engines of the same design may experience very
different piston running behaviours, may it be a function of their operation pattern, the
cylinder lubricant applied or the specific engine tuning. The most relevant issue is the
occurrence of cold corrosion that may lead to faster or even severe wear of piston
running components.

As a consequence the wear behaviour in general and the corrosion resistance

behaviour in particular may vary widely depending on the engine which is considered.

In order to achieve the best piston running behaviour, this bulletin describes the
following pillars that should always be applied.

It is of high importance to monitor the actual piston running behaviour onboard:

• Onboard monitoring of the piston underside drain oil as regards to Fe content, Cr

content and residual BN. See Data & Specifications bulletin RT-138 for the set
limits.
• Regular visual piston underside inspections.
• The fuel quality and more specifically the effective fuel sulphur content should be
analysed by a laboratory before using it to determine the feed rate that should be
applied.

There are various engine operation modes and operation responses. Each operation
regime requires a particular cylinder lubrication set up. The operation regimes are
described in dedicated chapters.

In this bulletin the determination of the sulphur dependency category will rely on the
determination of the residual BN in the piston underside drain oil of the engine.

Table 1, Feed rate glossary

Recommended base feed rate, e.g. 0.8 g/kWh for pulse

Guide feed rate
lubricating systems and 1.1 g/kWh for CLU-3.
Adjusted feed rate in the lubricating system. Load
Base feed rate
dependent without sulphur dependency
Adjusted feed rate in the lubricating system. Load
Sulphur dependent feed rate
dependent with sulphur dependency
Actual feed rate. Load dependent and also sulphur
Effective feed rate
dependent if applied.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 4 / 20

Selection of the cylinder lubricating oil (seeTechnical Bulletin RT-138, Chapter 3.1)
Consider fuel sulphur content and lubricant BN

Low load Normal load

Running-in
(< 60% CMCR) (> 60% CMCR)

Sulphur dependent Base feed Running-in

lubrication lubrication lubrication
Chapter 3 Chapter 2 Chapter 5

Residual Residual
BN < 25 BN < 25
and/or No and/or
signs of signs of
corrosion corrosion

Yes Yes

Safeguard Increased feed rate

sulphur dependent or
lubrication Cylinder lubricating
Chapter 4 oil with higher BN
required

Residual
BN < 25
No and/or
signs of
corrosion

Yes

NOTE:
Cylinder lubricating It is strongly recommended to have onboard devices
oil with higher BN allowing the follow up of the Piston Under-Side (PUS) BN
required and total Fe and Cr content.

Figure 1, Determination of feed rate

Alarm
Do not operate Alert area Safe
in this area

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 BN

Figure 2, Piston Under Side (PUS) drain oil residual BN

 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 5 / 20

Table 2, Corrosion on piston rings and cylinder liners (visual inspection)

Piston ring corrosion

Corrosive attack of CC coating Ring with severe corrosion spots

Cylinder liner corrosion

Cylinder liner with quite some cold corrosion Cylinder liner with black lacquer and cold
and some black lacquer corrosion
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 6 / 20

2 Base feed lubrication, engine operated above 60% CMCR 1

The cylinder lubrication has various functions:

• Building an optimal oil film between the cylinder liner and the piston rings.
• Neutralisation of sulphuric acid formed during combustion.
• Detergent and dispersant property in order to keep the piston, piston rings and
cylinder liner free from deposits.

NOTE:
When the engine is operated above 60% CMCR, it is recommended to set the base
feed rate as a function of the lubrication system in use.

The recommended base feed rate is 0.8 g/kWh for pulse lubricating systems and 1.1
g/kWh for CLU-3 lubricating systems.

3 Sulphur dependent lubrication, engines operated below 60% CMCR

It has been shown that during low-load operation, a more pronounced tendency for
cold corrosion can be observed on the cylinder liner and piston rings, in some cases
leading to scuffing. This corrosion indicates that the neutralisation and detergency
provided by the lubricant at the given feed rate are inadequate. Increasing lubricant BN
and/or feed rates in relation to the sulphur content of the Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO)
enhance the supply of neutralising and cleaning additives.
A trend towards more frequent operation of Wärtsilä RTA, RT-flex and W-X engines at
low load has been observed. Loads below 60% CMCR are considered as low load in
Wärtsilä 2-stroke publications.

For detailed information concerning low-load operation, please consult the Service
Bulletin RTA-79.2 or RT-flex-08.2, dated 11.03.2009, entitled “Continuous Low Load
Operation (Slow Steaming)”.

Experience has shown that during these low-load operations the probability of acid
creation in the cylinder increases. More particularly, the conversion of the sulphur in the
HFO into sulphuric acid will increase when the engine is being operated at low load.

Neutralisation of acidic components is achieved by the alkaline additives which are

present in the cylinder lubricating oil.

NOTE:
The neutralisation of the sulphuric acid produced during engine operation by the
calcium based additives follows the simplified equation:
CaCO3 + H2SO4 → CaSO4 + CO2 + H2O

Some cylinder oil formulations contain ash less detergents which also neutralise
sulphuric and other acids formed during fuel combustion in engines.

1
CMCR (Contracted Maximum Continuous Rating)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 7 / 20

Moreover, one has to bear in mind that the functions of the oil and additives are:
• Creation of a protective boundary film between the cylinder liner and piston ring
surface
• Provision of dispersancy
• Provision of detergency
• Neutralisation of acids

In order to enhance the protective chemical properties of the cylinder lubricating oil
while operating the engine at lower load it is recommended to adjust the cylinder
lubricating oil feed rate by considering the following:
• The current base feed rate in g/kWh.
• The HFO sulphur content, i.e. the sulphur content in % by mass of the residual
heavy fuel oil in use.
• The cylinder oil BN, i.e. the BN number of the cylinder lubricating oil in use in
mg KOH/g.
• Cylinder lubricating system in use.
• Piston underside drain oil residual BN.

As a consequence of the above mentioned points, it is advised to apply a sulphur

dependent feed rate if the engine is operated below 60% CMCR.

ATTENTION:
The Bunker Delivery Note (BDN) and bunker analysis can show inaccuracy in
measuring the sulphur content and possible different HFO composition. The sulphur
content used to set the correct feed rate must be the higher value of the BDN or the
bunker analysis to ensure safe operation.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 8 / 20

The feed rates as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 should be applied as a function of
the cylinder lubricating system, cylinder lubricating oil and fuel in use.

3.1 PLS system, sulphur dependent lubrication

2
PLS system, sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

1.6

1.4
BN 40 BN 50 BN 60 BN 70 BN 80 BN 90 BN 100
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2
1 2 3 4
1

0.8

0.6
5 6 7
8
0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 40 curve up to 2.0% sulphur 5. BN 80 curve up to 4.5 % sulphur

2. BN 50 curve up to 2.5% sulphur 6. BN 90 curve up to 4.5 % sulphur
3. BN 60 curve up to 3.5% sulphur 7. BN 100 curve up to 4.5 % sulphur
4. BN 70 curve up to 4.5% sulphur 8. Sulphur break points
Figure 3, Sulphur dependency for PLS systems and any system with a guide feed rate of
0.8 g/kWh at CMCR

NOTE:
Technical Bulletin RT-138 and Appendix 1 RT-138_A1 provide additional
recommendations and limitations to the various cylinder lubricating oils.

2
PLS (Pulse Lubricating System)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 9 / 20

Table 3, PLS sulphur dependent feed rate setting table for engines operated
below 60% CMCR (calculated values)

Sulphur BN 40 BN 50 BN 60 BN 70 BN 80 BN 90 BN 100
content (%) Lubricating oil feed rate (g/kWh)
0.0
0.1 0.80
0.2 0.80
0.3 0.80
0.4 0.80
0.5 0.80 0.80 0.80
0.6 0.80 0.80 0.80
0.7 0.80 0.80 0.80
0.8 0.80 0.80 0.80
0.9 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.0 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.1 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.2 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.3 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.4 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.5 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.6 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.7 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.8 0.85 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.9 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.0 0.95 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.1 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.2 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.3 0.85 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.4 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.5 0.95 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.6 0.80 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.7 0.85 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.8 0.85 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.9 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
3.0 0.95 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
3.1 0.95 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
3.2 1.00 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
3.3 1.00 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
3.4 1.05 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
Marpol Annex VI: 3.5 1.10 A 0.95 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
Limit 3.50% S
3.6 0.95 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80
3.7 1.00 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80
3.8 1.05 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80
3.9 1.05 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80
4.0 1.10 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80
4.1 1.10 A 0.95 A 0.80 0.80
4.2 1.15 A 0.95 A 0.85 A 0.80
4.3 1.15 A 1.00 A 0.85 A 0.80
4.4 1.20 A 1.00 A 0.90 A 0.80
4.5 1.20 A 1.05 A 0.90 A 0.85 A
A – Adjusted lubricating oil feed rate setting from 0.8 g/kWh to new value
– Lubricating oil feed rate setting for temporary use (less than 48 hours)
– If no piston underside drain oil on board monitoring system is in place, limited to 2.5% S (see RT-138)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 10 / 20

3.2 CLU-3 3 system, sulphur dependent lubrication

CLU-3 system, sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

1.6

1.4
4
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2
BN 40 BN 50 BN 60 BN 70

1 2 3 5
0.8
BN 100
BN 90
0.6
BN 80

0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 40 curve up to 2.0% sulphur 5. BN 80, BN 90 and BN 100 curves no

2. BN 50 curve up to 2.5% sulphur sulphur dependency required with
3. BN 60 curve up to 3.5% sulphur guide feed rate 1.1 g/kWh
4. BN 70 curve up to 4.5% sulphur 6. Sulphur break points
Figure 4, Sulphur dependency for CLU-3 systems and any system with a guide feed rate
of 1.1 g/kWh at CMCR

NOTE:
Technical Bulletin RT-138 and Appendix 1 RT-138_A1 provide additional
recommendations and limitations to the various cylinder lubricating oils.

3
CLU-3 (Accumulator injection lubricating system)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 11 / 20

Table 4, CLU-3 sulphur dependent feed rate setting table for engines operated
below 60% CMCR (calculated values)

Sulphur BN 40 BN 50 BN 60 BN 70 BN 80 BN 90 BN 100
content (%) Lubricating oil feed rate (g/kWh)
0.0
0.1 1.1
0.2 1.1
0.3 1.1
0.4 1.1
0.5 1.1 1.1 1.1
0.6 1.1 1.1 1.1
0.7 1.1 1.1 1.1
0.8 1.1 1.1 1.1
0.9 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.3 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.4 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.5 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.6 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.7 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.8 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.9 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.3 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.4 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.5 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.6 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.7 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.8 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.9 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.3 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.4 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
Marpol Annex VI: 3.5 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
Limit 3.50% S
3.6 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.7 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.8 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.9 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
4.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
4.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
4.2 1.15 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
4.3 1.15 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
4.4 1.2 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
4.5 1.2 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
A – Adjusted lubricating oil feed rate setting from 1.1 g/kWh to new value
– Lubricating oil feed rate setting for temporary use (less than 48 hours)
– If no piston underside drain oil on board monitoring system is in place, limited to 2.5% S (see RT-138)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 12 / 20

4 “Safeguard” sulphur dependent lubrication, engines operated below

60% CMCR
In some cases the recommendations under Chapter 3 are not enough to prevent
corrosion. If despite applying the lubricating feed rate as described in Chapter 3, it is
noticed that cold corrosion is taking place by:

• The observation of visual signs of cold corrosion on both piston rings and cylinder liner.

• The measurements of PUS drain oil being below the recommended BN limits or
above the engine typical Fe and Cr values – see Data & Specifications bulletin
RT-138, Chapter 3.2.

In this case it is recommended to apply the “safeguard” SULPHUR DEPENDENCY and

all other countermeasures targeting the reduction of cold corrosion.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 13 / 20

4.1 PLS system, “safeguard” sulphur dependent lubrication

PLS system, “safeguard” sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

BN 50 BN 60 BN 70 BN 80 BN 90 BN 100
1.6

8 1 2 3
1.4
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2

0.8

0.6

7 4 5 6
0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 50 curve up to 2.5% sulphur 5. BN 90 curve up to 4.5% sulphur

2. BN 60 curve up to 3.0% sulphur 6. BN 100 curve up to 4.5% sulphur
3. BN 70 curve up to 3.5% sulphur 7. Sulphur break points
4. BN 80 curve up to 4.0% sulphur
NOTE:
8. Recommended maximum continuous feed rate. Increase of lubricant BN is
recommended.
Figure 5, Safeguard sulphur dependency for PLS systems and any system with a guide
feed rate of 0.8 g/kWh at CMCR

NOTE:
Technical Bulletin RT-138 and Appendix 1 RT-138_A1 provide additional
recommendations and limitations to the various cylinder lubricating oils.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 14 / 20

Table 5, PLS “safeguard” sulphur dependent feed rate setting table for engines operated
below 60% CMCR (calculated values)

Sulphur content BN 50 BN 60 BN 70 BN 80 BN 90 BN 100

(%) Lubricating oil feed rate (g/kWh)
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5 0.80 0.80
0.6 0.80 0.80
0.7 0.80 0.80
0.8 0.80 0.80
0.9 0.80 0.80
1.0 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.1 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.2 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.3 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.4 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.5 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.6 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.7 0.95 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.8 1.00 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
1.9 1.05 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80
2.0 1.10 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.1 1.15 A 0.95 A 0.80 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.2 1.20 A 1.00 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.3 1.25 A 1.05 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.4 1.30 A 1.10 A 0.95 A 0.80 0.80 0.80
2.5 1.40 A 1.15 A 1.00 A 0.85 A 0.80 0.80
2.6 1.15 A 1.00 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80
2.7 1.20 A 1.05 A 0.90 A 0.80 0.80
2.8 1.25 A 1.10 A 0.95 A 0.85 A 0.80
2.9 1.30 A 1.15 A 1.00 A 0.85 A 0.80
3.0 1.35 A 1.15 A 1.00 A 0.90 A 0.80
3.1 1.20 A 1.05 A 0.95 A 0.85 A

3.2 1.25 A 1.10 A 0.95 A 0.85 A

3.3 1.30 A 1.10 A 1.00 A 0.90 A

3.4 1.35 A 1.15 A 1.00 A 0.90 A

Marpol Annex VI: 3.5 1.35 A 1.20 A 1.05 A 0.95 A
Limit 3.50% S
3.6 1.20 A 1.10 A 0.95 A

3.7 1.25 A 1.10 A 1.00 A

3.8 1.30 A 1.15 A 1.05 A

3.9 1.35 A 1.15 A 1.05 A

4.0 1.35 A 1.20 A 1.10 A

4.1 1.25 A 1.10 A

4.2 1.25 A 1.15 A

4.3 1.30 A 1.15 A

4.4 1.30 A 1.20 A

4.5 1.35 A 1.20 A

A – Adjusted lubricating oil feed rate setting from 0.8 g/kWh to new value
– Lubricating oil feed rate setting for temporary use (less than 48 hours)
– If no piston underside drain oil on board monitoring system is in place, limited to 2.5% S (see RT-138)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 15 / 20

4.2 CLU-3 system, “safeguard” sulphur dependent lubrication

CLU-3 system, “safeguard” sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

BN 50 BN 60 BN 70 BN 80 BN 90 BN 100
1.6
1 2 3 4 5
1.4
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2

0.8
7 6
0.6

0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 50 curve up to 2.5% sulphur 5. BN 90 curve up to 4.5% sulphur

2. BN 60 curve up to 3.0% sulphur 6. BN 100 curve up to 4.5% sulphur
3. BN 70 curve up to 3.5% sulphur 7. Sulphur break points
4. BN 80 curve up to 4.0% sulphur
Figure 6, Safeguard sulphur dependency for CLU-3 systems and any system with a guide
feed rate of 1.1 g/kWh at CMCR

NOTE:
Technical Bulletin RT-138 and Appendix 1 RT-138_A1 provide additional
recommendations and limitations to the various cylinder lubricating oils.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 16 / 20

Table 6, CLU-3 “safeguard sulphur dependent” feed rate setting table for engines operated
below 60% CMCR (calculated values)

Sulphur content BN 50 BN 60 BN 70 BN 80 BN 90 BN 100

(%) Lubricating oil feed rate (g/kWh)
0.0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5 1.1 1.1
0.6 1.1 1.1
0.7 1.1 1.1
0.8 1.1 1.1
0.9 1.1 1.1
1.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.2 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.3 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.4 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.5 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.6 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.7 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.8 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
1.9 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.0 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.1 1.15 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.2 1.2 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.3 1.25 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.4 1.3 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.5 1.4 A 1.15 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.6 1.15 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.7 1.2 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.8 1.25 A 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1
2.9 1.3 A 1.15 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.0 1.35 A 1.15 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.1 1.2 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.2 1.25 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.3 1.3 A 1.1 1.1 1.1
3.4 1.35 A 1.15 A 1.1 1.1
Marpol Annex VI: 3.5 1.35 A 1.2 A 1.1 1.1
Limit 3.50% S
3.6 1.2 A 1.1 1.1
3.7 1.25 A 1.1 1.1
3.8 1.3 A 1.15 A 1.1
3.9 1.35 A 1.15 A 1.1
4.0 1.35 A 1.2 A 1.1
4.1 1.25 A 1.1
4.2 1.25 A 1.15 A

4.3 1.3 A 1.15 A

4.4 1.3 A 1.2 A

4.5 1.35 A 1.2 A

A – Adjusted lubricating oil feed rate setting from 1.1 g/kWh to new value
– Lubricating oil feed rate setting for temporary use (less than 48 hours)
– If no piston underside drain oil on board monitoring system is in place, limited to 2.5% S (see RT-138)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 17 / 20

5 Lubrication during running-in

As for any mechanical system, each time a component of the piston running system is
changed, it is crucial to perform a running-in. The running-in is important because it
allows the mechanical conformation of the various components to each other. The
running-in consists in load steps which are lubricated with excess, the idea being that
this stage is producing a significant amount of wear debris that are to be handled by
the excess lubricant. Moreover it is to be noted that the system will be run-in until the
maximum load is reached. I.e., a new running-in is to be performed if the vessel is
going to be subject to higher load than those reached during running-in. It means that if
a unit has been run-in until a load L1, and is due to operate at a load L2 (L2 > L1 +
10% CMCR), then continuation of the running-in process should be applied.
After fitting a new cylinder liner or after replacing the piston rings, a running-in
procedure must be completed. The purpose of running-in is also to achieve good
sealing of the rings as soon as possible and is especially important for non-Chrome-
Ceramic piston rings. Under no circumstances must any scuffing occur on the running
surfaces of cylinder liner and/or piston rings during the completion of the running-in
procedure. The engine has to be run-in according to the guidelines of the running-in
programme (see Appendix 1 and 2). The load-up programme should not be completed
faster than recommended.

For particular attention, the following parameters should be adhered to.

Table 7, Running in recommendations

Media Recommendation
Fuel oil Running-in should be done on HFO (Heavy Fuel Oil).
HFO to be correctly treated and preheated to the
recommended injection viscosity before the engine is started.
Cylinder lubricating oil Same cylinder lubricating oil as for normal operation.
VIT / FQS VIT (Variable Injection Timing) system should be switched off.
FQS (Fuel Quantity Setting) set to zero.
Cylinder cooling water Check the stability and the level of the cylinder cooling water
temperature frequently.
Temperature fluctuations should be avoided as far as
possible:
+/- 2 °C at constant load
+/- 4 °C during transient conditions
Cylinder liner wall temperature The monitoring tool MAPEX PR is of great advantage as it
allows close monitoring of the cylinder liner wall temperature
for safe running-in.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 18 / 20

6 Cylinder lubrication: Blending on Board

There is a significant choice of cylinder lubricants on the market. A growing and
interesting concept is the blending of cylinder lubricant onboard.
This solution uses the system oil as base oil and by adding the correct quantity of over
based additives, the operator will produce a fit for purpose and tailored cylinder
lubricant especially concerning its neutralisation and detergency ability. Various BN oils
can therefore be produced on board. The key interest is that there will not be a need to
adjust the feed rate to the various operation conditions. The base feed rate will be kept
and the cylinder oil BN will be adjusted.
The combination of the blending system and of an onboard PUS oil condition
monitoring system (such as the SEA-Mate® B2000 blender combined with the SEA-
Mate® M2000 XRF analyzer) will allow the correct BN to be produced and therefore
improve the corrosion protection as well as the detergency.
This solution appears to be the most interesting technically for vessels operating on a
wide range of fuel sulphur and operating conditions.
As guidance, Table 8 can be used but will have to be further optimised as a function of
the behaviour of each specific engine.
For further information about Blending on Board see Chapter 7 “Appendix”, Item 4.

Table 8, BN values depending on sulphur content for base feed rate of 0.8 g/kWh

Sulphur content Normal operation Low load Safeguard

(%) (above 60 % CMCR) (below 60 % CMCR) operation
1.0 40 40 40
1.1 40 40 40
1.2 40 40 40
1.3 40 40 40
1.4 40 40 40
1.5 40 40 50
1.6 50 50 50
1.7 50 50 50
1.8 50 50 60
1.9 50 50 60
2.0 50 50 60
2.1 50 50 60
2.2 50 70 60
2.3 50 70 70
2.4 50 70 70
2.5 50 70 70
2.6 50 70 70
2.7 50 70 80
2.8 50 70 80
2.9 51 72 80
3.0 53 75 90
3.1 55 77 90
3.2 57 80 90
3.3 59 82 100
3.4 61 85 100
3.5 63 87 100
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 19 / 20

7 Appendix
1. Running-in programme (Appendix 1)
2. Running-in with CLU-3 and CLU-1E systems (Appendix 2)
3. Examples of feed rates (Appendix 3)
4. Link to Brochure – Wärtsilä Blending On Board system for 2-stroke engines
(Appendix 4):
http://www.wartsila.com/ss/Satellite?c=WMedia_C&childpagename=Wartsila%2FRunnin
gTextLink&cid=1278530349247&pagename=WCom%2FCommon%2FDefaultWrapper

8 Limitation
The lubrication procedure as described in Chapter 3 and 4 may not be used in the
territorial waters of Germany, China, the Republic of Korea or Japan unless it is used
on a vessel registered in a country being a contracting party to the Paris Convention for
the Protection of Intellectual Property, except Germany, China, the Republic of Korea
or Japan and unless said vessel is travelling in said territorial waters only temporarily.

8.1 Contracting parties to the Paris Convention

Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria,
Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia
(Plurinational State of), Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi,
Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros,
Congo, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Democratic People's Republic
of Korea, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador,
Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Estonia, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany,
Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Holy See, Honduras,
Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan,
Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho,
Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta,
Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal,
Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Papua New
Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Republic of Moldova,
Romania, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the
Grenadines, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra
Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Swaziland,
Sweden, Switzerland, Syrian Arab Republic, Tajikistan, Thailand, The former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, United
Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United Republic of Tanzania, United States of America, Uruguay,
Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Viet Nam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

RT-161, Issue 1, Page 20 / 20

9 Contacts
9.1 How to contact Wärtsilä
For questions about the content of this Technical Bulletin, or if you need Wärtsilä
assistance, services, spare parts and/or tools, please contact your nearest Wärtsilä
representative.
If you do not have the contact details at hand, please follow the link “Contact us” – “24h
Services” on the Wärtsilä webpage:
www.wartsila.com

9.2 Contact details for emergency issues

9.2.1 Operational support
For questions concerning operational issues, please send your enquiry to:
technicalsupport.chts@wartsila.com
or phone 24hrs support: +41 52 262 80 10.

9.2.2 Field service

If you need Wärtsilä Field Service, please send your enquiry to:
ch.fieldservice@wartsila.com
or phone 24hrs support: +41 79 255 68 80.

9.2.3 Spare parts

If you need Wärtsilä spare parts and/or tools, please contact your nearest Wärtsilä
representative or your key account manager.

© 2014 Wärtsilä Switzerland Ltd. – All rights reserved

No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, graphic, photocopying,
recording, taping or other information retrieval systems) without the prior written permission of the copyright holder. Wärtsilä Switzerland Ltd.
makes no representation, warranty (express or implied) in this publication and assumes no responsibility for the correctness, errors or
omissions for information contained herein. Information in this publication is subject to change without notice.

Unless otherwise expressly set forth, no recommendation contained in this document or any of its appendices is to be construed as
provided due to a defect of the product, but merely as an improvement of the product and/or the maintenance procedures relating thereto.
Any actions by the owner/operator as a result of the recommendations are not covered under any warranty provided by Wärtsilä and such
actions will thus be at the owners/operators own cost and expense.

NO LIABILITY WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL, IS ASSUMED WITH RESPECT TO
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. THIS PUBLICATION IS CONFIDENTIAL AND INTENDED FOR INFORMATION
PURPOSES ONLY.
 CLU-3 system: Running-in programme
g/kWh g/bhph
Inspection of piston rings and cylinder liners eff. eff.
2.0 1.47

1.6 1.2

1.5 1.1

Controllable Fixed 1.4

Pitch Pitch 1.0
1.3
Propeller Propeller
0.9
CMCR Load 1.2
Indicator CMCR Cylinder oil feed rate
Guide feed rate
Position Power adjustment based on 1.1 0.8
% % effective power
1.0
100 100 0.7

Service speed
resp. load

80

80

60

60

50 Running hours
5 10 15 20 25 200 500 1000

For Wärtsilä RTA, RT-flex and W-X 2-stroke engines operating at low load (below 60% CMCR), the running-in
schedule may be postponed provided both, a full set of CC rings (Chrome Ceramic), and a new fully honed or
previously run-in cylinder liner are in use according to the latest specifications as set in Technical Bulletin RT-135
with Appendix 1, RT-135_A1. At the next load up such as for turbocharger cleaning or boiler soot blowing, the
running-in procedure must be completed up to 75% load before operating again at low load.
TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 1 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 1 / 2

 g/kWh g/bhph
Pulse Lubricating Systems (PLS) 1): Running-in programme eff. eff.
2.0
1.2
Inspection of piston rings and cylinder liners 1.6
1.5 1.1

1.4
1.0
1.3
Controllable Fixed 1.2 0.9
Pitch Pitch
1.1 0.8
Propeller Propeller
CMCR Load Cylinder oil feed rate 1.0
Indicator CMCR 0.7
adjustment based on 0.9
Position Power
% effective power Guide feed rate
% 0.8 0.6
100 100
0.7
0.5
Service speed
0.6
resp. load 0.4
0.5
80

80

60

60

50 Running hours
5 10 15 20 25 200 500 1000

For Wärtsilä RTA, RT-flex and W-X 2-stroke engines operating at low load (below 60% CMCR), the running-in
schedule may be postponed provided both, a full set of CC rings (Chrome Ceramic), and a new fully honed or
previously run-in cylinder liner are in use according to the latest specifications as set in Technical Bulletin RT-135
with Appendix 1, RT-135_A1. At the next load up such as for turbocharger cleaning or boiler soot blowing, the
running-in procedure must be completed up to 75% load before operating again at low load.
1)
Valid for following lubricating systems:
Retrofit Pulse Lubricating System (RPLS)
Pulse feed system
Pulse jet system
TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 1 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 2 / 2

 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 1 / 9

Contents
Page
1 Running-in with CLU-3 and CLU-1E systems 1
2 Running-in with pulse jet, retrofit pulse or pulse feed lubrication system 6

1 Running-in with CLU-3 and CLU-1E systems

1.1 Cylinder oil feed rate adjustment and calculation CLU-3 and CLU-1E
The CLU-3 and CLU-1E system is applied for cylinder liners with both single and multi-
level lubrication and assembled upper and lower quills. For multi-level assemblies, the
distribution of cylinder lubricating oil on cylinder liners should be adjusted as listed in
Table 1:

Table 1, Lubrication level and distribution setting

Lubrication level Distribution setting

Upper quills 30 to 40%
Lower quills 70 to 60%

Distribution between the upper and lower quills is adjusted with the cylinder lubricating
pump setting disc (setting position 1 to 6 will change the pump stroke).

6 1

4 5

1. Pump element 4. Fixing screw

2. Adjustment disc 5. AF 24 for turning adjustment disc
3. Hexagonal nut 6. Screw plug
Figure 1, Cylinder lubricating pump setting disc
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 2 / 9

1.2 Adjustment with CLU-3

The volume of cylinder oil discharged by each pump stroke to a particular cylinder liner
depends on the upper and lower quill’s adjustment setting. It should be noted that
adjustments can be made on a running lubricator pump.

Table 2, Adjustment setting with CLU-3

Setting disc position 1 2 3 4 5 6

Old design* [ml/stroke] 0.212 0.290 0.397 0.544 0.736 0.941
New design** [ml/stroke] 0.27 0.36 0.47 0.63 0.83 1.10
* Old lubricating pump design is before week 28 / 2002
** New lubricating pump design is from week 28 / 2002

NOTE:
See Service Bulletin RTA–60.1, entitled “Cylinder Lubrication Diagrams for Vogel ‘PC’
and ‘TA’ Lubricating Pumps” for further details on CLU-3 lubrication oil pumps.

The total pump volume depends on the number of pump elements and the pump shaft
rotating speed, i.e. number of strokes. The Remote Control System (RCS) will send a
signal dependent upon the engine load (known as the “H” signal. Please refer to the
shop test report) to the frequency converter. The pump’s electric motor will then turn
the pump shaft proportionally to both the frequency output from the converter and the
pump gear ratio. The user has the possibility to proportionally vary the output signal
from the RCS with the adjustable Pump Speed Factor (PSF). This adjustment can be
made on a running engine. The PSF should be limited to the range of 0.85 to 1.15 to
prevent over/under lubrication in case of emergency operation. The PSF limit should
provide a safe margin of the cylinder oil feed rate at full load, although a setting close to
1.0 is advised.

NOTE:
When the remote control is not functioning, the frequency converter switches to
emergency lubrication. With supply at mains frequency (i.e. 50 or 60 Hz), the frequency
convertor speed is then constant at all engine loads.

The ratio of the lubricating pump shaft speed to the motor frequency is known as the
Frequency Ratio (FR). This ratio depends on the engine bore and the necessary pump
capacity:
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 3 / 9

Table 3, Engines in service with CLU-3

RTA engines Frequency ratio RT-flex engines Frequency ratio

RTA48T 0.57 RT-flex50 1
RTA48T-B 0.57 RT-flex50-B 1
RTA48T-D 0.57 RT-flex58T-B 0.763
RTA58T 0.763 RT-flex58T-D_V0 0.763
RTA58T-B 0.763 RT-flex60C 0.763
RTA62U--B 0.763 RT-flex68-B 1
RTA68--B 1 RT-flex84T-D 1.36
RTA72U--B 1 RT-flex96C--B 2
RTA84T-B 1.53
RTA84T-D 1.53
RTA96C 2
RTA96C-B 2

To obtain the lubricating pump shaft rotational speed and essentially the stroke rate of
the pump, the motor input frequency read-out from the converter display must be
multiplied by the frequency ratio.

For the distribution between the upper and lower quill adjustment settings with CLU-1E,
the “CLU-1E Calculation tool” it must be used. This tool is provided with the installation
and will suggest the correct disc position or pump settings according to the desired
vertical oil distribution.

1. Distribution-% 2. Selected Pump Settings

Figure 2, CLU-1E calculation tool
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 4 / 9

1.3 Example of the cylinder oil feed rate calculation CLU-3

Considering a 10RT-flex96C-B engine with the new lubricating pump design and
operating at 40.0 MW with the following parameters set:
• The upper quill set to position 1 with a discharge capacity of 0.27 ml/stroke (Table 2)
• The lower quills set to position 3, with a volume discharged 0.47 ml/stroke (Table 2)
• The cylinder oil density known to be 0.90 kg/l at 40 °C
• The pump speed factor (PSF) adjusted to 1.0

If the output frequency read out from the frequency converter is 50.0 Hz, the lubricator
pump shaft speed can be calculated:

Frequency * Frequency Ratio

= 50.0 * 2 (from Table 3)
= 100 rpm (or strokes/min)

It thus follows that:

(EQN 1) ((qu + ql) * i * n * ρ * 60) / P = feed rate [g/kWh]

where:

qu: upper quill discharged volume [ml/stroke]

ql: lower quill discharged volume [ml/stroke]
i: number of units (cylinders)
n: horizontal shaft speed [rpm]
ρ: cylinder oil density [kg/m3]
60: conversion of hour to minutes
P: engine load [kW]

Based on (EQN 1) the cylinder oil feed rate for the detailed engine will be:

((0.27 + 0.47) * 10 * 100 * 0.92 * 60) / 40000 = 1.02 g/kWh

If the PSF is changed to 0.95 for example, the output frequency will be proportional:

50 Hz * 0.95 PSF = 47.5 Hz

and so the feed rate can subsequently be recalculated.

 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 5 / 9

1.4 Feed rate for running-in and normal operation

At the start of the running-in process, it is necessary to increase the cylinder lubricator
settings of the respective unit(s) to a maximum feed rate of 1.6 g/kWh (at CMCR). The
calculated cylinder oil feed rate has to be verified with measurements.

A feed rate reduction should take place at the intervals detailed by the running-in
programme, but by no more than 0.1 g/kWh per adjustment. The minimum period to
reach the guide feed rate, 1.1 g/kWh, should not be shorter than that shown in the
running-in programme.

NOTE:
For individual cylinder running-in with CLU-1E, the “Individual cylinder calculation”
option of the tool must be used. See Chapter 1.3 for the setting of the lubrication pump.

1. Requested cylinder oil feed rate 3. Running-in feedback at CMCR load:

2. Distribution-% Reachable by distribution-%
Figure 3, CLU-1E calculation tool
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 6 / 9

2 Running-in with pulse jet, retrofit pulse or pulse feed lubrication system
In all systems there is a common principle with regard to the vertical oil distribution:
above – into – below the ring pack. The installation specific oil distribution can be
viewed in the flexView software. The running-in procedure for all systems is similar.

2.1 Adjusting the feed rate of lubricating oil

The adjustment of the cylinder oil feed rate can be carried out by means of flexView
user parameters (’LUB’ card → ’Feed Rate’) individually for each cylinder, or globally
for all cylinders (Example shown in Figure 4, Lubrication card in flexView).

Figure 4, Lubrication card in flexView

2.2 Measurement and calculation of the specific cylinder oil consumption

The following procedure describes how to measure the specific cylinder oil
consumption.

2.2.1 Required tools

• Stopwatch
• Beaker
• Cloth to wipe up escaping oil
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 7 / 9

1
3 5

800 mm

5
2

1. Isolating valve 4. Vent valve

2. Isolating valve 5. Upper and lower marker positions
3. Inlet valve
Figure 5, Illustration

2.2.2 Procedure
• Open the upper and lower isolating valves (1) and (2) for the sight glass (these
valves should be kept closed during normal operation). Ensure that drain valve is
closed.
• Shut the inlet valve (3) to the measuring vessel, open the vent valve (4) immediately
once the valve (3) has been closed (leave valve (4) open for the duration of the
measurement procedure).
• The oil level in gauge glass shall start to drop as the consumption is now from the
measuring vessel only. Once the level has reached the lower edge of the upper
marker (5) commence with time measurement with help of stop watch.
• Once the oil level has reached the upper edge of the lower marker (5) note the time
taken to consume the fixed volume.
• Open the inlet valve (3) to the measuring vessel and allow the oil to flow from the
vent valve (4). Once bubble free oil starts flowing form the vent valve (4), close it.
Clean the spilled oil if any.
• Shut the upper and lower isolating valves (1) and (2) on the measuring vessel and
open the drain valve collecting the drained oil in the beaker.

The volume of oil consumed in the measured time is 26 litres. This is for a measuring
height of 800 mm marked on the gauge glass prior to measurement.
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 8 / 9

2.2.3 Calculating the total oil consumption
1. Divide the consumed amount of oil (26 litres) by the measurement period (seconds).
The result is the total oil consumption in litres per second.
2. Multiply the result of the last step by 3600. The result is the total oil consumption in
litres per hour
3. Multiply the result of the last step with the oil density. The result is the total oil
consumption in kilograms per hour

The entire calculation can be put into one formula:

(EQN 2) C = 3600 * ρ * (ΔV / Δt)

where:

C: Total oil consumption [kg/h]

ρ: Density of oil [kg/l]; typically 0.92 kg/l
ΔV: Volume of oil consumed during measurement [l]
Δt: Measurement time [s]

2.2.4 Calculating the specific oil consumption

Based on (EQN 2) the total oil consumption as follows:

4. Divide the result of the last step by the current engine power output (kW). The result
is the specific oil consumption in kilograms per kilowatt hour.
The engine power can be seen at the flexView screen as a relative value. (100% is
corresponding to full power). Other values can be calculated by the rule of
proportion.
5. Multiply the result of the last step by 1000. The result is the specific oil consumption
in grams per kilowatt hour.
6. Divide the result of the last step by the correction factor. See below. The result is the
specific oil consumption in grams per kilowatt hour.

We can put the entire calculation for specific oil consumption into one formula:

(EQN 3) R = 3.6 * 106 * (ρ / ƒP) * (ΔV / Δt)

where:

R: Specific oil consumption [g/kWh]

ρ: Density of oil [kg/l]; typically 0.92 kg/l
ΔV: Volume of oil consumed during the measurement [l]
Δt: Measurement time [s]
P: Engine power during the measurement [kW]
ƒ: Correction factor
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 2 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 9 / 9

The correction with the factor ( ƒ ) is necessary if the engine does not run at full speed,
see (Table 4).

Table 4, Correction with factor (f)

Relative engine output Correction factor

P/Pmax ƒ
100% 1.00
75% 1.02
50% 1.06
20% 1.25
10% 1.56
This page is intentionally left blank
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 3 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 1 / 4

Adjustment examples
Example 1
Conditions:
1. A HFO with a sulphur content of 2% is to be used.
2. The cylinder lubricating oil in use is a BN 50 oil.
3. The lubricating system is RPLS 1.
4. The adjusted base cylinder LOFR 2 is 0.8 g/kWh.

Result:
• The sulphur content is below the HFO sulphur break point which is 2.2%, see
Figure 3 in Technical Bulletin RT-161.
• There is no need to adjust the feed rate as a function of the HFO sulphur content.

PLS system, sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

1.6

1.4
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2
1
BN 50
1

0.8

0.6

3 2
0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 50 curve
2. Sulphur break point
3. Example values
Figure 1, Sulphur dependency for Pulse Lubricating Systems (PLS) and any system with
a guide feed rate of 0.8 g/kWh at CMCR 3

1
RPLS (Retrofit Pulse Lubricating System)
2
LOFR (Lubricating Oil Feed Rate)
3
CMCR (Contracted Maximum Continuous Rating)
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 3 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 2 / 4

Example 2
Conditions:
1. A HFO with a sulphur content of 3.5% is to be used.
2. The cylinder lubricating oil in use is a BN 70 oil.
3. The lubricating system is Pulse feed.
4. The adjusted base cylinder LOFR is 0.8 g/kWh.

Result:
• The sulphur content is above the HFO sulphur break point which is 3.4%, see
Figure 3 in Technical Bulletin RT-161.
• The cylinder lubricating oil feed rate must be adjusted to 0.95 g/kWh, see Table 3 in
Technical Bulletin RT-161.

PLS system, sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

1.6

1.4

1 BN 70
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2

0.8

0.6
3
2
0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 70 curve
2. Sulphur break point
3. Example values
Figure 2, Sulphur dependency for PLS systems and any system with a guide feed rate
of 0.8 g/kWh at CMCR
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 3 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 3 / 4

Example 3
Conditions:
1. A HFO with a sulphur content of 3.2% is to be used.
2. The cylinder lubricating oil in use is a BN 70 oil.
3. The lubricating system is Pulse jet.
4. The adjusted base cylinder LOFR is 0.8 g/kWh.

Result:
• The sulphur content is above the HFO SBP which is 3.0%, see Figure 3 in Technical
Bulletin RT-161.
• The cylinder lubricating oil feed rate must be adjusted to 0.85 g/kWh, see Table 3 in
Technical Bulletin RT-161.

PLS system, sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

1.6

1.4

1 BN 70
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2

0.8

0.6

2 3
0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 70 curve
2. Sulphur break point
3. Example values
Figure 3, Sulphur dependency for PLS systems and any system with a guide feed rate
of 0.8 g/kWh at CMCR
 TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Appendix 3 to RT-161, Issue 1, Page 4 / 4

Example 4
Conditions:
1. A HFO with a sulphur content of 2.2% is to be used.
2. The cylinder lubricating oil in use is a BN 70 oil.
3. The lubricating system is CLU-3.
4. The adjusted base cylinder LOFR is 1.1 g/kWh.

Result:
• The sulphur content is below the HFO SBP which is 4.1%, see Figure 4 in Technical
Bulletin RT-161.
• The cylinder lubricating oil feed rate must be kept at 1.1 g/kWh, see Table 4 in
Technical Bulletin RT-161.

CLU-3 system, sulphur dependency for engines operated below 60% CMCR
2

1.8

1.6

1.4
1
LOFR (g/kWh)

1.2
BN 70
1

0.8
3 2
0.6

0.4

0.2

0
0 1 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5
Sulphur content in HFO (%)

1. BN 70 curve
2. Sulphur break point
3. Example values
Figure 4, Sulphur dependency for CLU-3 systems and any system with a guide feed rate
of 1.1 g/kWh at CMCR