Ammonia-fuelled Panamax bulk carrier design receives AiP from ClassNK

Japanese shipbuilders are expected to use the approved basic design for their future ammonia-fuelled newbuildings, and GSC noted that special consideration had been given to the ammonia fuel tank capacity and layout, as the fuel has a significantly larger volume than heavy fuel oil.

The two-tank arrangement has led to a safe and easy-to-use vessel that minimizes the impact on cargo capacity and cruising range, says GSC. The system is also designed for potential deployment on larger vessels such as Capesize and LNG-fuelled bulk carriers that are “Ammonia Ready”.

ClassNK reviewed the ammonia treatment measures, piping diagram of the fuel supply system, identification of hazardous area taking into account the flammability and toxicity of ammonia, and evacuation routes in case of emergency. ClassNK published its “Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels” in August 2021.

GSC was established in October 2020 and includes members: Imabari Shipbuilding, Oshima Shipbuilding, Odo Shipbuilding, Japan Marine United, Shin Kurushima Sanoyas Shipbuilding, Shin Kurushima Dock, Sumitomo Shigeru Machinery Marine Engineering, Utsumi Shipbuilding, Namura Shipbuilding, Japan Maritime Association, Mitsui E & S Machinery and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding. The organisation is currently working on the development of four ship concepts using new fuels. 

In December 2021, Sumitomo Corporation announced a series of initiatives connected with the development of a supply chain for ammonia as a marine fuel. In addition to the joint development and launch of an ammonia-fuelled bulker with Oshima Shipbuilding by 2025, Sumitomo announced plans to work with Keppel O&M towards beginning ammonia bunkering operations in Singapore by the mid-2020s.

MAIN PARTICULARS – 80,400dwt ammonia-fuelled Panamax bulker design