Classification society DNV has awarded HD Hyundai Mipo an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of a new ammonia dual fuel feeder container vessel.
The AiP is the result of a collaborative effort between HD Hyundai Mipo, WinGD, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Kangrim Heavy Industries, and DNV. According to DNV, ammonia continues to attract attention as a potential fuel for shipping as the industry steps up to tackle the IMO GHG reduction strategy. When produced sustainably ammonia is a potential zero-carbon option but comes with several challenges, especially in terms of supply and the safety considerations required due to its toxicity.
Dongjin-Lee, Head of Initial Design Division, HD Hyundai Mipo said: “Ammonia fuel is important as a means to achieve the IMO’s 2050 carbon emission net zero target, but its high toxicity makes safety a top priority. HD Hyundai Mipo has successfully delivered various world-first dual-fuel propulsion ships, including LNG, LPG, and methanol-powered vessels. Through our proven experience with dual fuel technology, we have developed this ammonia-powered container ship collaborate with partners. HD Hyundai Mipo has taken a significant step closer to ammonia-powered ships and the company is expected to lead a safer decarbonisation trend.”
The ammonia-powered feeder container ship features an engine developed by WinGD, a Swiss-based company, and manufactured by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries )HD HHI). The ship’s ammonia fuel supply system and boiler are designed by HD HHI and Kangrim Heavy Industries, respectively. To enhance the safety of the vessel, it utilises AI technologies to apply autonomous navigation and video-based integrated safety control solutions. The video-based integrated safety control solution is a core technology for unmanned ships, featuring a real-time situation analysis and prediction system through CCTV monitoring of all hazardous areas on the vessel. The ship features a Type C fuel tank to minimise the risk of leakage.
Vidar Dolonen, Regional Manager Korea and Japan DNV Maritime, said: “We are honoured to be part of this innovative group of partners, who are looking to build confidence and offer maritime stakeholders another sustainable fuel option. This AIP is another step towards the broader adoption of low-carbon ammonia-powered vessels, extending their application to container feeder ships and reinforcing our shared commitment to a greener maritime future.”
Image: AiP for dual-fuel feeder ship (source: DNV)
