A Giant Leap Toward Sustainable Shipping: Ammonia Dual-Fuel Vessel Launched

STX Service Americas, LLC celebrates a groundbreaking milestone achieved by STX Engine and partners in Korea. On November 27, the first-ever ammonia dual-fuel test vessel was launched in Goseong. This innovative vessel, a collaboration of 15 cutting-edge companies, including STX Engine, marks a significant leap toward decarbonizing maritime transport.

This 36-meter, 500-ton vessel utilizes a hybrid fuel system combining ammonia—a carbon-neutral alternative—with fossil fuels. By dramatically reducing CO₂ emissions, it aligns with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) carbon neutrality goals and showcases a proactive solution for the maritime industry's stricter environmental regulations.

As part of this transformative project, STX Engine contributed to developing key components, including engines and emission control systems tailored for ammonia dual-fuel usage.

𝗔𝗺𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮 𝗗𝘂𝗮𝗹-𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗩𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗹 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱

collaboration of 15 cutting-edge companies, including STX Engine

Going beyond and embracing change 2025

STX Engine believes that the difficult but very necessary decisions taken in 2022 to ensure STX Service Americas could correctly represent STX Engine, continue to create positive results. The STX Engine teams both in Korea and in the USA now work in harmony to create the best result for STX Engine customers.

Our goal in 2022 was to build upon STX Engine core values and ensure STX Service Americas followed a clear code of conduct, mission, vision and values. Our mission statement at STX Service Americas has always been clear and it is important that it is never compromised or undermined.

Mission: To provide excellent value in our service, so customers can focus on their core business.
Vision: To be your primary contact for maritime, offshore and power plant services.
Core Values: Business Relationship, Customer Satisfaction, Employee Passion.

STX Service Americas as the only OEM extension for STX Engine in the Americas understands our responsibility is to ensure the standards of honesty, integrity and openness are always available to our customers.

Challenges in 2023 provide opportunities to gain a greater understanding of the needs of the owners and operators. STX Service Americas has strengthened our technical services based in Houston. This has significantly increased our technical and service capabilities to support the Americas. New STX Service Americas key alliances in Brazil have been addressed to ensure the best interests of Brazilian customers will be served.

For 2025 the focus will continue to be on STX Service Americas core values, highly competitive pricing and unquestionable quality of STX Engine Genuine Parts & Services. STX Engine is committed to continuing to serve all STX Engine owners within North America, Central America and South America both Onshore (Power Stations) and at sea. With access to a worldwide network of experienced Service Engineers, STX Service Americas will continue to strategically expand the placement of experienced service engineers in key locations.

As always, STX Service Americas is prepared for 2025 and looking forward to assisting customers achieve their goals of “On-time” and “On-budget”.

All our best from the STX Engine and STX Service Americas team,

Going beyond in 2025,

Going beyond

and embracing change 2025

As always, STX Service Americas is prepared for 2025 and looking forward to assisting customers achieve their goals of “On-time” and “On-budget”.

Going beyond in 2025,

SMV1000, Celebrating Innovation

We recognize the dedication of our armed forces and take this opportunity to celebrate an impressive achievement by our parent company, STX Engine. We are proud to announce the launch of a next-generation engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer—an exciting advancement that strengthens global defense solutions!

In just three years, STX Engine developed a 1000-horsepower engine that not only equals the performance of its predecessor from MTU solutions but also delivers 5% better fuel efficiency and a lighter design!

This was made possible through a government-backed R&D initiative, collaborating with esteemed institutions such as the Korea Automotive Technology Institute and Hanyang University, resulting in the successful localization of over 500 critical components.

In the words of STX Engine CEO, Lee Sang-soo: “By completing the localization of the K9 howitzer engine and establishing a robust production system, we are poised to expand our export markets, unlocking significant economic potential for the future.”

As we honor the bravery of our armed forces, we also look ahead to a future driven by innovation, global collaboration, and new opportunities in the defense sector. Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement and the spirit of excellence at STX Service Americas, LLC!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MeHvxTQEuo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNxQA481Kjo

V32/40 Low-load operation and the Recommendation

After 500 hours of continuous operation with liquid fuel at a low load in the range of 20% to 25% of the full load, the engine should be ran-in again. The engine must be operated at > 70 % of the full load for some periods in order to reduce the deposits in the cylinders and exhaust gas in turbocharger.

[Maintenance for System component]

The LO low pressure alarm is one of the alarm parameters for the lo system for engine start-up (warm) rather than for the Pre LO pump. If the alarm sounds or the pressure is lower than that of other engines, check the condition of the engine and the system components.

Many parts including pump, cooler, filter and valves, are assembled into the LO system, which can also cause pressure drops due to coolers and filters. These parts have different inspection periods based on engine operating condition, fluid status, and used hours. Therefore, based on users’ requirement, they should be registered on PMS list, and many different factors should be observed. If there are any difference from original status, LO system should be inspected and managed.

[The role of the filter as an Engine Protection]

The Filter in the case of the V32/40 engine is a 30 micron Auto backflushing filter. It takes out most of the particles in the oil which are larger than approx 30 micron at the widest point of the narrowest cross section.

[The role of the purifier as the Lubricant Oil Cleaning]

The role of the purifier is actual cleaning of the lubricant oil heat of the oil is sufficient to facilitate it. (min. approx. 95 deg.). The particles cleaned out will go into the sludge tank. The size of remaining dirt particles after the purifying stage would normally and nominally be smaller than 5 micronmeter. This means that the purifiers should run always when the engines are running. If it is not done, any dirt particles in the lubricant oil system smaller than approx. 30 micrometer could be re-circulated again and again.

Key factor in reducing component wear: Centrifugal by-pass oil filter

Oil is the life-blood of the engine and clean oil is essential if an engine is to operate efficiently throughout its working life.

Emission reduction technologies such as exhaust gas recirculation have been shown to increase the level of contaminant, especially soot in the lubricating oil. Soot particles are sub-micron in size. Soot is a hard pro-wear particle. High soot levels within a lubricating oil have been shown to be responsible for accelerated wear of critical engine components. Traditional full flow and by-pass filters are unable to remove soot contaminant as it is too small to be captured. Centrifugal filters are proven to be effective at removing soot.

Centrifugal filter has proved to be the key factor in reducing component wear whilst increasing the oil and engine life cycle and provides a cleanable, low maintenance and environmentally friendly solution throughout the life span of the engines.

The following advantages are obtained with the Centrifugal by-pass oil filter.

l  Reducing critical component wear of bearings, pistons, piston rings…etc.

l  Lower maintenance cost of ship owner.

l  Maintaining oil cleanliness for longer periods.

l  Cleanable, environmentally friendly waste disposal.

l  Prevent accidents by contamination of lube oil such as camshaft cam and bearing shell damage…etc.

Please note that a centrifugal filter installation cannot replace the necessary function of the lube oil purifier. and this solutions are available as retrofit for all GenSets.

Posidonia 2024: Navigating the Future of Maritime Excellence

Greece, known for its rich maritime history, once again played host to the prestigious Posidonia event in 2024. Held biennially, Posidonia is a beacon for the global maritime industry, attracting industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the world.

This year's Posidonia, held in the vibrant city of Athens, surpassed expectations, showcasing the latest advancements and trends in maritime technology, sustainability, and business strategies. With a focus on navigating the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving industry, Posidonia 2024 provided a platform for insightful discussions, fruitful networking, and groundbreaking collaborations.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore an extensive exhibition featuring state-of-the-art vessels, cutting-edge equipment, and innovative solutions designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability in maritime operations. From autonomous ships to renewable energy technologies, Posidonia 2024 highlighted the industry's commitment to embracing innovation and driving positive change.

STX Global Network Unites at Posidonia 2024

Our global network, STX Service Europe, attended Posidonia 2024 as an exhibitor. This prestigious event provided an invaluable opportunity for our teams from STX Service America, STX Service Singapore, and STX Engine (our headquarters) to converge and discuss critical aspects of our business and industry:

1. Market Trends and Opportunities: Evaluating current trends in the maritime industry and identifying new business opportunities to keep us ahead of the curve.

2. Innovation and Technology: Sharing insights and developments in innovative technologies that can enhance our services and products, ensuring we remain leaders in the field.

3. Customer Feedback and Satisfaction: Reviewing customer feedback to ensure our services meet the highest standards and address any issues promptly, fostering stronger customer relationships.

4. Operational Efficiency: Discussing strategies to improve operational efficiency across all regions, optimizing our processes and performance.

5. Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all our global operations comply with international regulations and standards, maintaining our reputation for reliability and integrity.

6. Sustainability Initiatives: Collaborating on initiatives to reduce our environmental footprint and promote sustainability within the industry, reflecting our commitment to responsible business practices.

7. Employee Development: Focusing on training and development programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of our workforce, supporting their professional growth and our organizational excellence.

Engaging with Customers

Posidonia 2024 was also a fantastic opportunity for us to meet with our customers and potential customers in real-time. These face-to-face interactions allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and expectations, discuss their challenges, and explore how our solutions can best serve their requirements. This direct engagement is invaluable for building stronger relationships and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients.

Through numerous meetings and discussions, we were able to:

• Identify Key Challenges: Listening to our customers allowed us to identify the key challenges they face in their operations, enabling us to tailor our solutions to address these specific issues.

• Showcase Our Capabilities: Demonstrating our latest technologies and services provided our customers with a clear understanding of how we can help them achieve their goals.

• Gather Valuable Feedback: Receiving direct feedback from our customers helps us continuously improve our offerings and better meet their needs.

• Strengthen Partnerships: Reinforcing our commitment to supporting our customers fosters trust and strengthens our long-term partnerships.

Looking Ahead

This meeting was instrumental in aligning our strategies and fostering stronger collaboration across our global network. As we look ahead, the insights and plans formulated during Posidonia 2024 will drive our efforts to innovate, improve, and expand our services, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the maritime industry.

We are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. Our participation in Posidonia 2024 reaffirms our commitment to excellence and our position as a leading player in the global maritime sector.

Thank you to all who made this event a success. We look forward to leveraging the knowledge and connections gained to propel STX to new heights.

Until we meet again at Posidonia 2026, let us continue to navigate the seas of opportunity, together charting a course towards a brighter and more sustainable maritime future.

Team STX Day!

Congratulation, 12th Anniversary of STX Service Americas!

STX ENGINE has been finally selected as localization developer for an electronic fuel injection diesel engine

After STX ENGINE has been finally selected as localization developer for an electronic fuel injection for a multi launch rocket system Chunmoo, it signed an agreement with KRIT (The Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement) for a support project for the localization of weapon parts.

As the diesel engines in Chunmoo currently operated by the ROK Army have been discontinued or have reached their end of life, there was a need to develop an alternative engine. Accordingly, the development of the electronic fuel injection was promoted as a support project for localization of weapon parts (aka localization of strategic weapon parts).

It is expected that the development of this engine will enable it to stably field the weapons and cope with changes in weapon systems by resolving issues incurred by discontinuation of existing engines. Moreover, the development of weapon’s major parts is expected to contribute to revitalizing K-defense exports by eliminating factors that hinder the export of combat vehicles and engines.

In 2021, STX Engine was selected as a localization developer for 1000-horsepower diesel engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer which is one of the most prestigious weapons of the ROK Army. After completing engine prototype production and performance testing three years after the start of development, this paved the way for STX Engine to export to countries with restricted exports, such as countries in Middle Eastern and Egypt.

Lee Sang-Soo, the CEO of STX Engine, said “STX Engine is the only defense engine manufacturer in Korea with 45 years of defense engine manufacturing experience and technical know-how, and now it is growing into one of the most trusted companies in the world after fulfilling our customers’ due date, quality service and technical supports. STX Engine will do its best to localize and develop electronic fuel injection for tracked vehicles within the schedule so that they can help to stabilize forces and to grow together with a number of small domestic partners.”

Technical Information - ENGINE OVERSPEED SHUTDOWN SYSTEM

This service letter contains important information regarding the in-troduction of an improved solenoid valve for the overspeed protection system 

of the above-mentioned engine types and for easy verification of the function of the secondary air-operated over speed shutdown system, Work card M5090105-14 (Function test of shutdown) has been updated.  

Please discard the previous version and insert this one in your instruction manual. 

For details, please refer to the MES service letter No.: SL2023-750/JNN “engine over speed shutdown system” enclosed. 

Action code: at first opportunity

If you have questions for this technical bulletin, please contact us at any time.

STX has begun the development of exportable TASS (Towed Array Sonar Systems)

STX has begun developing exportable TASS (Towed Array Sonar Systems) after signing a Weapon System Modification and Development Support Project Agreement with KRIT (The Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement) on Wednesday, December 13th.

This project will be carried out from 2023 to 2027 with a total cost of 11.4 billion won, and is a project to remodel and develop the TASS (SQR-250K) used in frigates and destroyers into an export model.

The exportable TASS has an active sonar receiver system added to the SQR-250K currently operated by the ROK Navy. Through this, the goal is to strengthen submarine and torpedo detection functions and to improve technology and price competitiveness compared to overseas competitors' products with reduced size and weight. STX ENGINE plans to accelerate overseas exports in the future, starting with the development of exportable TASS.

STX, a specialized company that has supplied radar and sonar equipment to the ROK Navy for the past 30 years, is expected to enhance domestic technology through this development and further secure its position in overseas markets through exports.

ADEX 2023 in Seoul

Thanks for everyone. And Successful event with…

STX Hybrid engine system

STX K1A2 tank engine with improved performance improvement engine : SMV 1360 and MT881 for K9

STX K9 self-propelled artillery engine

STX Intelligent coastal surveillance radar-II

First fire of STX-MAN 6L35/44DF CD

successfully completed, First firing on Sep. 8th 2023

L35/44DF CR to L35/44DF CD

Improved on the economic performance and maximized convenience

560kW per cylinder, increased capacity

Eco-friendly engines, satisfied with GHG emission regulation

Minimize of the methane slip

Qualified to change Diesel to Gas under 100% load operation

STX Containerized Power Package (CPP)

Benefits..Specification and Configuration and Case Study for TCO (Total Cost Ownership)

Selected as a localized manufacturer for electronic multi-purpose diesel engine for Defense Industry

STX Engine has grown into Korea's unrivaled defense industry engine manufacturer through projects such as developing a diesel engine for K9 self-propelled howitzers

Recently, STX Engine has been finally selected as a localization developer of electronic multi-purpose diesel engines for three types of tracked vehicles such as the K21 infantry armored vehicle. And STX Engine signed a development support project agreement with the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT) for localization of weapon parts

The diesel engines in the K21 infantry fighting vehicle, K-30 Biho and K200A1 fighting vehicle currently operated by the ROK Army have been discontinued or have reached their end of life. As a result, there was a need to develop an alternative engine, and the development of an electronic multi-purpose diesel engine was promoted as a support project for localization of weapon parts (aka localization of strategic weapon parts). Through this, it is expected that the problem of limiting follow-up logistics support due to the discontinuation of the mechanical engine will be resolved, and it will be possible to stabilize forces and to respond to weapon system changes in the future. Additionally, this development is expected to contribute to revitalizing exports of Korean defense products by removing obstacles to exporting combat vehicles and engines.

In 2021, STX Engine was selected as a localization developer for 1000-horsepower diesel engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer which is one of the most prestigious weapons of the Korean Army. This paved the way for exports to countries with restricted exports, such as Middle Eastern countries and Egypt.

CEO of STX Engine, said, “STX Engine is the only defense engine manufacturer in Korea with 45 years of defense engine production experience and technical know-how, and now it is growing into one of the most trusted companies in the world. STX Engine will do its best to localize and develop multi-purpose diesel engines for tracked vehicles within the schedule so that they can help to stabilize forces and to grow together with a number of small domestic partners.”

STX Engine is recently developing a diesel engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer and a performance enhancing diesel engine for the K1A2 tank. Ah it has been selected as a developer of electronic multi-purpose diesel engines for tracked vehicles, STX Engine is establishing itself as a professional engine manufacturer in Korea. On the top of that, STX Engine is also planning to develop a hybrid engine system suitable for future ground weapons to respond to changes in the battlefield environment.

Come into a new CEO, Sang-soo Lee from STX Engine

STX Engine appointed Sang-soo Lee as a new CEO from 30th of March at the general meeting of stockholders and previously, he was a director of STX Engine's Military Business Division.

From a long-term perspective, he has focused on the “sustainable growth” and “customer-centered management strategy” and in detail, “△Developing independent technique, △Improvement trust with communication, △Implementation responsible management.” should be followed.

Sang-soo, Lee, the president of STX Engine, said, “Everyone here today, including myself, has the responsibilities and rights to turn a crisis into an opportunity and works on a sustainable company to open the way for promotion.” He asked everyone to consider “what we are required and how we can achieve”.

He graduated from Masan High School and received a bachelor's degree at mechanical engineering from Ajou University. He joined Ssangyong Heavy Industries in 1988, positioned as the director of STX Engine's Military Division in 2019, and was assigned as the 9th CEO of STX Engine.

Herewith the message from CEO,

STX Engine has met customers’ various requirements on their component and service businesses based on its accumulated experience and technological power in the field of engines. In addition, the company’s electronic and communication business, equipped with original technologies in underwater systems and radio wave detection, is expanding to the global market by performing R&D and quality innovation.

Currently, even amidst a rapidly changing management environment, STX Engine follows the mental attitude of "establish basic rules and everything else will naturally fall into place" as it prepares for a new launch. The company thoroughly confirms the basics of all categories from the start, and holds customer satisfaction, stockholder satisfaction and social responsibility as its highest priorities through faithfulness to the basics of the work it pursues with individuals and in each category.

Even now, all employees of STX engine are working very hard to launch based on creativity with a challenging mindset to achieve the goal of becoming a comprehensive engine heavy electric machine maker.

We will work even harder to transcend Asia and take center stage in the world economy. We ask for your unchanging interest and support as STX Engine continues to take on challenges to create the dreams and a future for customers and to become a sustainable company that is respected globally.

Some of technical letters issued 2nd half of '22→

STXE-TI2022-051 (replacement of STXE-TI2020-033) : Retrofitting of Old PLC for 4‐Stroke

STXE-TI2022-050 : Inlet and exhaust valve issues when operating on Low-Sulphur fuels for 4-Stroke

STXE-TI2022-049 (replacement of STXE-TI2019-025) : Recommended Modification Parts to Comply with SOx Regulation for 2&4-Stroke

STXE-TI2022-047 : Excessive wear on the lock-king key of crankshaft thrust bearing for 27/38 design

STXE-TI2022-046 : New tool, top land ring for 32/40 design

STX Engine, Signed MOU for Hybrid Engine System with VINCORION in Germany

STX Engine, a manufacturer specializing in diesel engines for the marine and defense industry, is developing a hybrid engine system.

STX Engine announced that it has signed an MOU for strategic cooperation in the hybrid engine system business with VINCORION, a German mechatronics solution specialist.

This MOU is to secure a defense hybrid engine system suitable for the upcoming future combat equipment and related technologies. By removing the engine starter and generator mounted on the existing land warfare platform, integrating them into one, and installing it between the transmission and engine, it is possible to further increase fuel efficiency, secure additional power, and improve instantaneous acceleration performance.

Furthermore, after building a hybrid engine system, device that can collect real-time data from the engine is additionally installed to develop a system that informs users of real-time engine status and the optimal maintenance time.

STX Engine can provide increased operational range of military combat platform and improved combat survivability through such system development. It is expected to keep the platform operation rate higher by providing real-time engine condition monitoring and optimal maintenance time in connection with the data collection sensor.

STX Engine CEO Park Ki-moon said, “In keeping with the 4th industrial revolution, it is essential to develop a hybrid diesel engine for defense business.” And he said, “As our company had played a pivotal role in the domestic defense diesel engine industry for the past 46 years, we will not hesitate to take the lead in improving future defense technology”.

‘22 Round-up, Continued Developing to 2023

As 2023 fast approaches, STX Service Americas (hereunder “STX SA”) wishes to reflect upon the past and look towards the future. A future built upon the core values that correctly reflect STX SA code of conduct, mission, vision and values! Our mission statement at STX SA has always been clear and it is important that it is never compromised or undermined.

 Mission : To provide excellent value in our service, so customers can focus on their core business.

Vision : To be your primary contact for maritime, offshore and power plant services.

Core Values : Business Relationship, Customer Satisfaction, Employee Passion.

 STX SA as the only OEM representative for STX Engine in the Americas understands our responsibility is to ensure the standards of honesty, integrity and openness are always available to our customers.

 During 2022, STX SA has continued to focus upon key ingredients to ensure all customers can continue to have access to OEM quality at highly competitive prices. We have strengthened the quality, control and logistics management and has replenished a depleted US parts stock held in Houston, Texas with Millions in long-terms strategic 32/40 and other engine spare parts. This is a significant investment by STX Engine for the American market. Within 2022 STX SA has successfully supplied a greater number of Genuine STX OEM Engine parts to many more STX Engines owners and performed scheduled engine maintenance in the US, Brazil, Africa and Asia.

 For 2023 the focus will continue to be on STX Service Americas core values, highly competitive pricing and unquestionable quality of STX Engine Genuine Parts & Services. STX Engine is committed to continuing to serve all STX Engine owners within North America, Central America and South America both Onshore (Power Stations) and at sea.

 With access to a worldwide network of experienced Service Engineers, STX SA will be strategically expanding the placement of experienced service engineers in key locations such as the US and Brazil. STX SA has a fully equipped workshop in Houston and access to a trusted workshop facility within Brazil.

 In summary, STX Service Americas is prepared for 2023 and looking forward to assisting customers achieve their goals “On-time” and “On-budget”.

 All our best from the STX Service Americas team

STX Engine to disclose its technologically independent diesel engine at ADEX held in Seoul

STX Engine announced that it will disclose the diesel engine for the K9 self-propelled artillery and K1A2 tank for the first time at Seoul ADEX 2021 held in Seoul airport.
As the largest Korean diesel engine maker for defense industry, STX Engine will exhibit the diesel engines for the K9 self-propelled artillery which is known as one of the best weapon as well as the diesel engine used to improve the performance of ROK army’s main tanks, K1A2 and exhibit localized prototype of intelligent seashore surveillance radar, GPS-800K that can monitor various threats in multi dimensions.
As the world’s best weapon, K9 self-propelled artillery’s heart is a high speed diesel engine(8 pistons, 1000 hp) and it is the main military engine with high output and performance as well as a very small size. Up Until now , it has successfully localized more than 2,500 units and it is well known as the main products in overseas markets as well as in Korea.
In the government project of K9 self-propelled artillery diesel engine localization posted by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration to reduce export restrictions of K9 self-propelled artillery and ensure technological independence, recently, STX Engine was selected as the final Korean localization company and it plans to completely localize all the parts that it used to rely on imports including the key parts.
At the exhibition, STX Engine will exhibit injectors, bearings, fly wheels and so on yet to be localized in order to ensure 100% localization other than the K9 self-propelled artillery.
Also, in order to quickly respond to the K1A2 tank performance improvement project, STX Engine will disclose the high output diesel engine being independently developed to the public for the first time.