The unique twin skeg design offers future fuel flexibility. 

Lloyd’s Register and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries  have signed a joint development project  for approval in principle for a 15,300 TEU Class ammonia powered dual-fuel container ship.

As the shipping industry strives to reduce its environmental impact, the potential of ammonia as fuel in shipping has emerged as a potential low-carbon option due to its zero carbon emissions when burned. However, challenges remain, particularly due to the inherent toxicity of ammonia, which has slowed its widespread adoption as a dual-fuel option in various ship types.

Under the agreement, HHI has developed a twin skeg design for an ultra large container ship (ULCS). The 365-metre vessel features two small bore engines that are currently available on the market and ammonia fuel tanks positioned ahead of the engine room, far from the deckhouse, helping ensure safe fuel supply operations and better crew habitability.  It is the first design to offer ammonia-powered dual fuel engines for ULCS, as there is currently no large ammonia powered dual fuel big bore engine technically available. It hopes to address concerns from ship owners who are hesitant to adopt ammonia dual fuel systems until they are proven with applicable engine types for ULCSs.

The project aims to complete a full safety review that involves a feasibility assessment for ammonia fuel tanks constructed with low temperature steel and an evaluation of the structural integrity of the ship against sloshing loads. Additionally, it will review the fuel gas supply system, helping ensure safety and compatibility with ammonia.

LR has reviewed the design to ensure it meets applicable standards of safety and operational efficiency relating to the usage of ammonia as a marine fuel and provide technical advice for further design development.

Kim, Young-Doo, GTSO Representative for Korea, Lloyd’s Register said: “There is a growing demand for container vessels that incorporate innovative technologies to comply with stringent regulations and environmental standards for zero carbon.

“Lloyd’s Register is at the forefront of meeting the maritime sector’s need for innovative design development and approval for ammonia fuelled vessels, while also providing our clients and potential clients with access to cutting-edge advancements in ship design and propulsion systems.

“Leveraging our collective expertise and using LR’s extensive experience in certifying ammonia powered designs, this project demonstrates our commitment to supporting the energy transition in the maritime industry.”

Jeon, Seung-ho, Head of Shipping Technology Division at HHI commented: “We are pleased to continue our strong working relationship with LR to develop and test the feasibility of an ammonia duel-fuel containership. With the urgent need for sustainable fuel solutions in the maritime industry, this project seeks to deepen the understanding of ammonia as a marine fuel, setting the stage for future shipbuilding endeavours.”

Lloyd’s Register is leading the safe and sustainable use of ammonia fuel in the containership industry. Through its innovative “Fuel for Thought” alternative fuel report series, LR has established its expertise in supporting companies adopting ammonia as a fuel. Services include comprehensive HAZID, HAZOP, and quantitative risk assessments, along with several approvals in principle for vessel designs and technologies, and notable advancements in technical rule development. As a safety-focused, fuel-agnostic organisation, LR aims to create a safe framework for the ammonia cargo market and its use with other fuels.