World-first ethane fuel conversion completed

The 35,000m3 ship owned by Navigator Gas had its six-cylinder, MAN B&W S50ME-GI engine – initially operating on LNG and fuel oil since delivery in August 2016 – converted to a dual-fuel (HFO and ethane) S50ME-GIE engine.

Paul Flaherty, director off and technical operations, Navigator Gas, said: “This project represents a significant investment by both Navigator Gas and [charterer] Borealis that demonstrates a commitment to environmental protection and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This retrofit will comply with all current global emissions regulations and position us as early adopters of the global sulphur cap regulation due to come into force on the 1 January 2020.”

Engine manufacturer MAN Energy Solutions, cargo system and fuel gas supply system supplier TGE and classification society ABS completed the conversion of the Navigator Aurora’s while berthed at Frederikshavn in Denmark. Ship management and marine engineering consultancy Northern Marine and the Liberian administration were also involved in the project.

The 15-day long conversion followed engine performance and emissions testing at Kawasaki in Japan to prove that burning ethane in the converted engines would be possible. The trials demonstrated that suitable power and emissions performance, meeting Classification and statutory requirements, was available at a fuel gas injection pressure of just over 300bar.

“This is the second ME-GI conversion ABS has been involved in, demonstrating industry-leading experience in gas as fuel and in providing guidance on converting ships and engines to operate on natural gas or other alternative low flashpoint fuels,” said Peter Fitzpatrick, vice president, global business development, ABS.