The outcome of the review and any affects this may have on the diesel engines and gas turbines businesses should be known by the end of 2000.
2.5 Research and Development
Both gas turbines and diesel engines require lengthy test-bed running of technology demonstrator and pre-production units to verify performance, reliability, durability and emissions.
A brand new Bergen design is being progressed as well as planned improvements to the company's existing range of engines. The main design work on a Bergen C-type engine has been completed and a 6-cylinder technology demonstrator engine is expected to begin running before the end of 2000 in a test cell for proving and certification. Production plans for the Bergen C include 7 engine models, with 5, 6, 8 or 9 cylinders in-line and 12, 16 or 18 in vee formation, at a rating of about 300kW per cylinder.
In addition, Rolls-Royce is participating in the FastShip Atlantic project which aims to develop a fast freight carrier capable of speeds of up to 40 knots across long distances.
However, most of the product development activity relates to gas turbines. Rolls-Royce has accelerated work on the Eurodyn project being carried out in Norway. This is looking to develop a small lightweight gas turbine for use in luxury yachts, high speed ferries and high speed naval attack crafts. Similarly the development programme for the 6-8MW Allison 601 has been accelerated. This model is to be aimed at the high speed ferry and naval markets.
The WR-21 marine gas turbine project, being carried out jointly with Northrup Grumman aims to develop a new 25MW gas turbine which will provide economic and environmentally friendly propulsion for the next generation of warships and commercial vessels, including cruise ships. It is being developed under a United States Navy contract, with support from the UK and France.
In addition, Rolls-Royce is developing a 30MW gas turbine for the cruise ship and large ferry markets
R&D activities are co-ordinated by a 'Product Systems Board' made up of technical and business development personnel from various parts of the Marine Division. One of the Board's tasks is to review Naval and Commercial Product Development plans to identify commonalties and explore how best practice can be shared.
