Classification Society ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of an ammonia-fuelled Panamax bulk carrier developed by Planning and Design Center for Greener Ships (GSC).
According to ClassNK, ammonia is expected to be used as decarbonised fuel for ships since it does not emit CO2 when burned, however, taking adequate safety measures are essential due to its characteristics of being toxic for humans and corrosive to materials. While international standards for using ammonia as ship fuel are yet to be developed, ClassNK has published its own Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels to minimise the risks related to ammonia-fuelled vessels for the ships, crew, and environment by stipulating requirements for installation, controls, and safety devices.
For the design developed by GSC, ClassNK reviewed the ammonia treatment measures, piping diagram of the fuel supply system, identification of hazardous area taking into account the flammability and toxicity of ammonia, and evacuation routes in case of emergency in line with the Guidelines. Verifying the conformity to the requirements, ClassNK has issued the AiP. GSC member shipbuilders in Japan are expected to use the approved basic design information for upcoming product development of ammonia-fuelled bulk carriers.
