Wärtsilä equips VLAC vessels with ammonia cargo handling systems

Each Korean VLAC will have the capacity to transport 88,000 m³ of ammonia, which requires specially reinforced tanks and hulls.
Wärtsilä equipa dos buques VLAC coreanos con sistemas para amoníaco

Technology firm Wärtsilä Gas Solutions has been selected to supply cargo handling systems for two large-scale gas carriers (VLACs) specializing in the transport of ammonia. The vessels, currently under construction at the Hanwha Ocean shipyard in South Korea, were ordered by a Japanese shipowner and will have a capacity of 88,000 m³ each.

Reinforced design for Korean VLACs

The design of the VLACs requires particular structural adaptations due to the high density of ammonia. Therefore, both the hulls and the cargo tanks will be reinforced to withstand the operational demands. Wärtsilä’s equipment is specifically designed to ensure the safe and efficient transfer of gas, responding to the growing demand for alternative fuels.

This order, secured by Wärtsilä in the second quarter of 2025, strengthens the strategic partnership with Hanwha Ocean Shipyard and consolidates its leadership as a supplier of cargo solutions for the marine market. Delivery of the equipment is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Technology at the service of decarbonization

The company stresses that the contract represents a step forward in its strategy to support the decarbonization of maritime transport.

These systems are perfectly designed for this type of vessel and we appreciate Hanwha Ocean’s continued confidence.

Patrick Ha, sales manager at Wärtsilä Gas Solutions, said.

With operations in more than 70 countries and a workforce of more than 18,000 people, Wärtsilä continues to expand its global footprint through integrated power and gas solutions. Its involvement in such projects reinforces its role as a key player in the transition to a more efficient and sustainable more efficient and sustainable more efficient and sustainable shipping.

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Source and photo: Wärtsilä