KR (Korean Register) has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for its 9,300 TEU ammonia-fuelled container ship.
As the global maritime industry intensifies efforts to meet stricter decarbonisation targets, ammonia is gaining prominence as a potential zero-carbon fuel. In light of the current trends, recent LNG-fuelled container ships have adopted designs that allow the use of ammonia fuel for its sustainable option.
Ammonia fuel is said to present advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficiency compared to other alternative fuels. However, due to its high toxicity and corrosive properties, it requires a specially designed fuel propulsion system, as well as additional safety assessments that take the operational requirements into consideration. The development of this 9,300 TEU ammonia-fuelled container vessel is considered to mark a key step in advancing ammonia fuelled propulsion technology.
SHI has developed an entirely new structural layout and the vessel’s design which includes specialised fuel tanks, fuel supply systems, ventilation and gas detection systems, incorporating the unique properties of ammonia fuel. KR has verified this newly developed vessel’s design and ammonia fuel system, ensuring compliance with classification rules and international regulations, and granted AiP after confirming the integrity and safety of the entire system.
Lee Hyungchul, KR Chairman and CEO said: “This joint development is a significant step toward the commercialisation of large ammonia-fuelled container ships. KR will continue to provide technical support for the innovations in decarbonisation solutions.”
Jang Haeki, SHI EVP and CTO, said: “Our 9,300 TEU ammonia-fuelled container ship incorporates the leading eco-friendly technologies of SHI. We will continue to accelerate the development of carbon-neutral solutions to secure our competitive edge in the next-generation ship market.”
Image: Lee Hyungchul, KR (left) and Jang Haeki, SHI (source: Korean Register)
