New guidelines on storage tank materials for alternative fuels

The newly published ‘Guidelines for Selection of Metallic Materials of Containment Systems for Alternative Fuels for Ship’ includes detailed technical information on all the metal materials suitable for such containment systems. It has been jointly developed by KR’s R&D division and Dr. KIM Yongjin’s research team of the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM).

Currently, a lot of research is being done to assess and evaluate alternative vessel fuels, particularly ammonia, biogas, hydrogen and methanol, and the systems, methods and materials for storing such fuels onboard vessels are clearly important. KR has proposed suitable metal materials that can be used for containment systems and for the supporting structures taking into account the characteristics of the various fuels. Applicability evaluation methods and procedures are also included in the document.

The guidelines examine the various restrictions and technical limitations affecting metal materials used to contain liquid hydrogen, which is technically the most difficult to store in large capacities and currently hardly used for vessels. The guidelines notes that hydrogen induced cracking causes damage to materials.

“KR conducts world-class research and development to benefit and support the wider maritime industry, regularly sharing its latest technological information. These timely guidelines will be welcomed by universities, research institutes, shipowners and clients, indeed anyone who is working to develop eco-friendly vessels” says Mr. KIM Daeheon, Executive Vice President of KR R&D division.