Groundbreaking First H2-fuelled 2-stroke Engine Test Completed

The test was successful at 100% load operation, with particularly promising data regarding an absence of hydrogen leakage from the hydrogen gas supply equipment. The hydrogen gas supply system used in the test was developed by Mitsui in 2023.

The successful conclusion of combustion tests operating on hydrogen for the first time on a large bore 2-stroke engine is a milestone for MAN ES’ 2-stroke engine programme. Mitsui E&S claimed that the combustion test represents a significant step forward in the development of a low-emission “marine propulsion system that can greatly contribute to the reduction of GHG emissions in the shipping industry”.

During the engine tests, stable operation was achieved at various loads and operating conditions, including successful hydrogen combustion up to 100% load. Mitsui also confirmed greenhouse-gas emission reductions of up to 95%, with the remaining fraction originating from the pilot-fuel employed during testing.

Mitsui noted that the proiect received funding from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s subsidy project Subsidy for Technology Development to Promote Maritime Industry Intensive Cooperation. The project is intended to accelerate the introduction of hydrogen related infrastructure and technologies. It was noteworthy that Mitsui’s stated plans to launch a hydrogen-related business in international shipping ”as soon as possible” were not repeated in MAN ES’ own comments below.

Gunnar Stiesch, Chief Technical Officer, MAN Energy Solutions, said: “This is a very interesting project and one of several activities related to hydrogen that MAN Energy Solutions is currently pursuing within both two- and four-stroke segments. My congratulations to Mitsui for achieving this world-first and pushing the envelope on decarbonisation.”

Brian Østergaard Sørensen, Vice President and Head of Research & Development, Two-Stroke Business at MAN Energy Solutions, said: “This exploratory work is illuminating and gives us much food for thought. MAN Energy Solutions continuously looks to support the decarbonisation journey within the maritime industry, and as often as possible with esteemed industry partners such as Mitsui.”

Bjarne Foldager – Country Manager, Denmark – MAN Energy Solutions, said: “We have worked closely with Mitsui on this research project and are very happy with the results achieved. This proves the advantages and the flexibility of two-stroke engine technology, and means that we are now also prepared for the future, not only for hydrogen derivatives but also for hydrogen as a fuel. MAN Energy Solutions closely follows the market to keep track of any significant developments and this test is a noteworthy progression.”

Thomas S. Hansen – Head of Sales and Promotion – MAN Energy Solutions, said: “MAN B&W-branded engines are flexible by nature and designed for an easy retrofit at a later stage to different fuel types. This is an encouraging milestone for hydrogen as a fuel. We will now take some time to evaluate the results and ensure that we are ready to take action if and when the market for hydrogen matures.”