Classification society American Bureau of Shipping has granted approval in principle to Hanwha Ocean for the development of an ammonia multifuel system focused on liquefied natural gas carriers. This advancement integrates a multipurpose fuel tank and a fuel gas supply system designed to facilitate direct transition from LNG to ammonia. The core advantage of the development lies in enabling shipowners to execute such conversion without the need to replace the main tank or existing supply infrastructure on the vessel.
Technical validation of the ammonia multifuel system
In this regard, the classification society’s evaluation confirmed that the proposal strictly meets international requirements and applicable class regulations. The technical architecture has been specifically adapted for an electric-propulsion LNG carrier powered by a gas turbine. Consequently, the installation efficiently supplies both LNG and ammonia to the turbine, ensuring smooth operational transition between both energy vectors according to the vessel’s needs.
Regarding this verification, ABS Senior Vice President of Global Engineering, Gareth Burton, noted that fuel flexibility represents a practical requirement for shipowners operating under a constantly evolving regulatory framework. Likewise, the executive emphasized the technical complexity involved in achieving this adaptability without replacing storage tanks, highlighting the commercial and operational viability of the concept presented by the South Korean shipyard.
Sustainability strategy and sector outlook
For his part, Hanwha Ocean Chief Technology Officer, Young Chang Shon, indicated that the maritime industry’s trajectory toward net-zero emissions remains firm despite global regulatory uncertainties. The executive stated that the versatility of this multipurpose design provides shipowners with an efficient pathway to migrate from LNG to ammonia, safeguarding long-term fleet competitiveness against future environmental requirements.
This certification consolidates a series of joint projects between both entities, including prior validation of an ammonia turbine propulsion system and a gas dispersion study for 174,000-cubic-meter LNG carriers. Additionally, the classification body maintains strategic agreements with other global maritime industry players to drive innovation and compliance with sustainable standards in the offshore sector.
Source and photo: Hanwha Ocean
