What is the significance of a "waste heat recovery system" onboard?

The significance of a "waste heat recovery system" onboard is primarily to capture waste heat from exhaust gases, which improves the overall energy efficiency of the ship's machinery. In marine engineering, a considerable amount of energy is lost as waste heat in exhaust systems. By utilizing a waste heat recovery system, this energy can be redirected to perform useful work, such as producing steam for propulsion or for heating other systems on board. This not only enhances the efficiency of the main engine but also helps in reducing fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to more environmentally friendly operations.

Implementing such a system allows vessels to maximize the use of the energy produced by their engines, leading to significant operational cost savings and increased sustainability. It plays a crucial role in the engineering design of modern vessels looking to improve their overall performance and adhere to stricter environmental regulations.