Approval in Principle for VLCC diesel/ammonia fuel setup
Classification society DNV has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for a new 'Fuel Ready' notation applying to a diesel/ammonia dual-fuel arrangement on a new 300,000dwt VLCC design.
The setup could enable conversions from diesel/LNG fuel arrangements if or when ammonia becomes more widely available and adopted by shipowners, marking a key development in shipping’s next fuel era.
The AiP covers the VLCC structure and its fuel tanks. Ammonia has a boiling point of -33.3°C and therefore the design incorporates cryogenic pressure fuel tanks. At the time of construction, the tanker would still be subject to a full review of documentary requirements relating to class rules, DNV said.
Ho-hyun Jeong, executive vice president and head of SHI’s Engineering Operations, explained: “The global maritime industry is at a critical juncture in terms of being ready to respond with low-carbon ship design. Through DNV’s AiP for ammonia 'Fuel Ready' design, SHI is making an effort for commercialisation of alternative fuel solutions for global shipowners considering newbuildings or converting ammonia-fuelled ships in the future.”
DNV Maritime CEO, Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, commented: “We are very happy to work with SHI in this innovative 'Fuel Ready' VLCC concept. DNV has been pioneering the research and development of viable future marine fuels, including ammonia. As a trusted voice to tackle global transformations, our role is to support the industry in bringing new low-carbon ship designs to life in a safe and sustainable manner."