MAN Cryo develops hydrogen fuel gas system

The Fjord1 hydrogen vessel concept, including the MAN Cryo system, have been granted approval in principle by class society DNV GL – the first time a hydrogen fuel-gas system has secured such an approval.

Uwe Lauber, CEO, MAN Energy Solutions, said: “Hydrogen is a clean fuel whose profile fits perfectly with the general desire within the industry to move towards cleaner technology. The possibilities for this technology are varied and exciting. As a solution for vessels employed on relatively short maritime routes, such as ferries, this technology is a world-first.”

Liquefied hydrogen has a temperature of -253°C, putting system components and materials under extreme stresses. Hydrogen’s explosive nature was another design challenge.

The system has a scalable design that can be adapted for different ship types, sizes and conditions. The design is suited for both above- and below-deck applications.

Liquefied hydrogen can be used to charge batteries for electrical propulsion via fuel-cell technology, or used as fuel for engines. MAN Cryo said it sees a bright future for hydrogen applications globally as part of its target of achieving zero fossil emissions within the marine sector by 2050.