HD Hyundai Mipo gets DNV’s nod for ammonia dual-fuel ship design

June 6, 2024, by Fatima Bahtić

Classification society DNV has awarded South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Mipo an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of a new ammonia dual-fuel feeder container vessel.

As informed, the AiP is a result of a collaborative effort between HD Hyundai Mipo, WinGD, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Kangrim Heavy Industries, and DNV.

The ammonia-powered feeder container ship design features an engine developed by WinGD, a Swiss-based company, and manufactured by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries.

The ship’s ammonia fuel supply system and boiler are designed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Kangrim Heavy Industries, respectively.

To enhance the safety of the vessel, it uses AI technologies to apply autonomous navigation and video-based integrated safety control solutions.

The video-based integrated safety control solution includes a real-time situation analysis and prediction system that functions through CCTV monitoring of all hazardous areas on the vessel.

The ship design also has a Type C fuel tank to minimize the risk of leakage.

Approval in Principle confirms that the design is feasible and that no significant obstacles exist to prevent the concept from being realized.

“Ammonia fuel is important as a means to achieve the IMO’s 2050 carbon emission net zero target, but its 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,” Dongjin-Lee, Head of the Initial Design Division of HD Hyundai Mipo, said.

“HD Hyundai Mipo has taken a significant step closer to ammonia-powered ships and the company is expected to lead a safer decarbonization trend.”

“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,” Vidar Dolonen, Regional Manager Korea & Japan at DNV Maritime, commented.

Ammonia continues to attract attention as a potential fuel for shipping as the industry steps up to tackle the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) greenhouse gas 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.