12 new 175hp Mercury OptiMax DSI diesel outboards for Australian Navy
Six new RIBS from Britton Marine in Sydney, with 175hp Mercury diesel outboards, join RAN fleetThe Royal Australia Navy (RAN) has put into service six new 7.6 metre RIBs, each sporting a pair of 175hp Mercury OptiMax DSI diesel outboards. What makes these boats special is the fact they are powered by outboards in the first instance.
For many years, the RAN has had a ban on outboards because traditional petrol engines and, moreover, the fuel itself were considered too flammable to be aboard warships.
That meant the Navy had to rely on diesel inboards, even at the cost of performance in smaller craft.
Mercury’s new three litre DSI (Diesel Spark Ignition) outboard has been specifically engineered to address the above issue and meet the needs of military and other specialised commercial applications.
Based on Mercury’s OptiMax technology, the high-performance DSI outboard differ significantly from a normal diesel engine, which uses compression to cause the fuel to combust.
DSI motors, much like petrol engines, use a spark plug to ignite the fuel which has been finely atomised by a small charge of compressed air.
Additionally, a glow-plug supports the spark plug for improved cold-weather starting and better idling.
BRITTON MARINE RIBS
The six host DSI 760 Ship Boats, built by Britton Maritime Systems from a proven RIB design, have been allocated to the Navy’s Cape-class patrol boats.
They will provide general support and act as interceptors when the patrol boats have to investigate or seize other vessels.
The twin 175hp DSI outboards, with 17 pitch propellers, provide the three tonne RIBs with all the power and speed they need in their unpredictable roles, Mercury Marine says.
Designed to carry up to eight people along with 200kgs of cargo, the ship boats can reach 40 knots at 5750rpm in a flat sea. By replacing inboards with outboards, the Navy achieves a range of advantages.
The new boats are easier and cheaper to service, they are about 500kgs lighter, and have better performance characteristics including a tighter turning circle. They are significantly quieter and enjoy additional cargo space, Mercury Marine adds.
OPTIMAX FEATURES
Based on trusted OptiMax technology, the new DSI outboards also feature SmartCraft engine guardian for real-time engine diagnostics, a custom-calibrated propulsion control unit, electronic multipoint lubrication, a 60A belt-driven alternator, low emissions, and high-performance cylinder liners for optimal engine running.
The new RIBS for RAN and this release were released in time for Pacific 2017, the international maritime expo held in Sydney in early October, 2017.
More at Mercury DSI diesel outboards.
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