Wärtsilä EcoControl is a smart propulsion control system that automatically optimises propeller pitch and engine RPM to reduce fuel consumption and improve vessel energy efficiency. Available for both newbuilds and as a retrofit for existing vessels, EcoControl helps you get more efficient performance from your propulsion system across varying operating conditions.
What is Wärtsilä EcoControl?
A smart propulsion control system that optimises propeller pitch and engine RPM for more efficient vessel operation.
How does EcoControl work?
EcoControl uses real-time vessel data to automatically seek an efficient combination of propeller pitch and engine RPM as operating conditions change.
Key benefits of EcoControl
EcoControl for newbuilds and retrofits
EcoControl is available for newbuild vessels and existing vessels as a retrofit.
EcoControl retrofit requirements
The retrofit solution is designed for vessels with diesel-driven controllable pitch propellers (CPP) and variable-speed operation.
Where EcoControl fits
For vessels with controllable pitch propellers, engine speed and propeller pitch need to work together efficiently. When vessel load and operating conditions change, the optimum combination can change too.
EcoControl automatically responds to these variations. Its control algorithm uses real-time vessel data to seek the most fuel-efficient combination of propeller pitch and engine RPM and adjusts them accordingly.
The result is smarter propulsion control that helps the propulsion system operate more efficiently as operating conditions change.
Without active optimisation, operating margins designed to protect the engine from overload can result in less efficient operation when engine load varies. [wartsila.com]
EcoControl uses real-time vessel data to continuously seek an efficient operating point between propeller pitch and engine RPM. It then adjusts these parameters accordingly, helping the propulsion system operate more efficiently as operating conditions change.
Build propulsion efficiency into your vessel from the start
For a newbuild, EcoControl can be integrated into the propulsion system from the outset. By continuously seeking an efficient combination of propeller pitch and engine loading, EcoControl helps enhance overall propulsion efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
When EcoControl is combined with an integrated Wärtsilä propulsion system, propulsion efficiency can be enhanced further through efficient interaction between the propulsion components and control system.
Improve propulsion efficiency with an EcoControl retrofit
EcoControl can also help improve the efficiency of a suitable existing vessel. The retrofit solution uses real-time operating data to optimise the relationship between propeller pitch and engine RPM, helping the existing propulsion arrangement operate more efficiently.
EcoControl retrofit is designed for vessels with:
Installation is possible without drydocking or crew training.
Discover how Wärtsilä EcoControl can improve the propulsion efficiency of an existing vessel and deliver fuel savings of up to 7%. Watch the video to see how EcoControl works.
Wärtsilä EcoControl can reduce fuel consumption by optimising how engine RPM and propeller pitch work together. But there are many other ways than propulsion control to improve vessel energy efficiency. Explore the Energy efficiency page to see what else you could do – and when.
Explore how EcoControl could help you improve propulsion efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and improve vessel energy efficiency, whether for a newbuild or an existing vessel.