What is one reason diesel engines are used in marine applications?

Diesel engines are particularly favored in marine applications primarily because they generally have a longer life and better fuel efficiency compared to gasoline engines. This is due to several design and operational features inherent to diesel engines.

First, diesel engines operate at lower RPMs (revolutions per minute) and have a heavy-duty construction able to withstand higher temperatures and pressures, which contributes to their longevity. This robust design allows for more extended periods of operation without needing significant repairs or overhauls, making them ideal for commercial marine operations where downtime can be costly.

Second, diesel fuel has a higher energy density than gasoline, which means that diesel engines can extract more energy from a given quantity of fuel. This results in better fuel efficiency, allowing vessels to travel longer distances on less fuel, an essential factor for both economic and environmental considerations in marine operations.

These characteristics make diesel engines particularly suitable for the demanding conditions often encountered in marine environments, where reliability, durability, and efficiency are crucial.