Engine Update: Volvo Penta Launches 2 New IPS Models

Volvo Penta announces an expansion to its proven IPS product line with the introduction of two new models. The new IPS800 and 950 are optimized for integration with the new-generation D11 diesel engines also unveiled by Volvo Penta.

IPS950

Like their predecessors, the new IPS drive packages provide industry-leading performance in terms of higher torque, better drivability and significantly lower noise levels. With steerable drive units and double forward-facing propellers, the Volvo Penta IPS system provides about 30 percent lower fuel consumption and 20 percent higher top speed compared with traditional shaft installations.

“The IPS800 and 950 are matched with the new 625 and 725 hp D11 diesel engines, providing a perfect combination of torque, speed and maneuverability for 40-60 ft. fly bridge yachts and sports cruisers. The result is two new and reliable drive packages both with classic Volvo Penta quality: a unique high torque,” stated Marcia Kull, Vice President, Marine Sales North America, Volvo Penta of the Americas.

“The mechanical compressor increases the charging pressure directly from low RPMs and now creates an even more powerful low-speed torque. Together with the double forward-facing and counter-rotating propellers you get an extremely good grip in the water. The drive packages are more responsive to commands and together with the joystick control, the result is significantly improved maneuverability,” said Thomas Lantz, Chief Product Manager at Volvo Penta.

With the latest diesel technology that the Volvo Group has to offer, Volvo Penta now sharpens the D11 generation with additional technical upgrades.“This means for example that we also improve our twin-entry turbo where each exhaust pulse is maximized to provide charging pressure at high revs. This results in increased top speed and better acceleration,” said Lantz.

“Based on the D11, the new IPS models deliver tremendous power and strength throughout the rev range, and you will be amazed at how maneuverable these boats are. The drivability is great at both high and low speeds and the driving joy is total,” said Lantz.

Improved Comfort

With the new IPS models, the onboard comfort has also improved significantly.

“Thanks to a new and more efficient silencer, a new turbocharger and an air filter with improved insulation, the sound levels have been reduced by two dB, which is a clearly noticeable difference. At the same time, the robust engine design contributes to minimizing the on-board vibrations,” said Lantz.

Lower Emissions

The emission levels for Volvo Penta IPS is already about 30 percent lower compared with traditional shaft installations, and with the IPS800 and 950 further improvements are achieved.

“With advanced technology we manage to create an optimized air and fuel pressure ratio, which gives very efficient combustion. And with increased after-cooling, we acquire more engine power altogether,” said Lantz.

Thanks to the efficient combustion, the new IPS models comply with the world’s most stringent environmental legislation, U.S. EPA Tier 3, which comes into force in 2014. The particulate emissions are 40 percent lower compared with today’s Tier 2 levels.

Upgraded Basic Construction

The IPS800 and 950 will by far be able to live up to our customers’ expectations regarding the qualities that characterize Volvo Penta in terms of safety, reliability and service life.

“We have, among other things, developed a strong and robust engine block together with a new cylinder head with improved cooling, which gives the engine a consistent, optimized service temperature. The result is a very reliable engine with a long life,” said Lantz.

Integrated with the Latest EVC

The engines use the latest generation of the Volvo Penta electronic platform, the Electronic Vessel Control (EVC). The latest generation of EVC enables an additional number of features for increased security and control, and improved functionality.

Customized Installations

Volvo Penta IPS is a unique and flexible system and is available in double, triple and quadruple installations. The wide range of Volvo Penta IPS drive packages enables the boat owner and boat builder to find the optimal drive system for different types of boats from 35-100 ft.

Simple Installation and Service

The new D11 series that the new IPS models are based on has the same installation dimensions as before, which is beneficial to the boat builder. All fuel and oil filters, oil dipstick and oil filler are gathered in the back of the engine where they are easily accessible for servicing. The IPS installation is delivered in a complete package from Volvo Penta. And compared with a setup with shafts, the installation time has been reduced by more than 50 percent.

Technical Data

IPS950*

Crankshaft output: 725 hp (533 kW) at 2500 RPM

Max torque: 2440 Nm at 1300-1900 RPM

Configuration: In-line, 6-cylinder diesel with electronically controlled unit injectors, twin-entryturbo, mechanical compressor and intercooler

Cylinder volume: 10.84 liters

Emissions: EU RCD and U.S. EPA Tier 3

IPS800*

Crankshaft output: 625 hp (460 kW) at 2400 RPM

Max torque: 2200 Nm at 1100-1900 RPM

Configuration: In-line, 6-cylinder diesel with electronically controlled unit injectors, twin-entry turbo, mechanical compressor and intercooler

Cylinder volume: 10.84 liters

Emissions: EU RCD and U.S. EPA Tier 3

* The IPS designation corresponds to the crankshaft power (hp) required from a corresponding setup with shaft.

EPA Tier 3 Background

Tier 3 originates from the U.S. Clean Air Act written by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from 1990. In this, a multi-step plan with a number of “tiers” – deadlines for engine manufacturers – was established. Shortly thereafter, the EU adopted a similar multi-step plan. To be approved according to the Tier 3 requirements, the levels of particulate emissions must be reduced by 40 percent and nitrogen oxide emissions must be reduced by 20 percent compared with previously (Tier 2), which means an emission ceiling of 5.8 g/kWh and NOx. The emissions requirements associated with the different tiers are a guarantee that the work toward cleaner air and environment steadily continues.

Source: Soundings TradeOnly