Lloyd’s Register (LR) and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) have recently signed an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a groundbreaking 15,300 TEU Class ammonia-powered dual-fuel container ship as part of their joint development project. With the shipping industry increasingly focused on minimizing its environmental footprint, ammonia has emerged as a promising low-carbon fuel option, given that it produces zero carbon emissions when burned. However, its toxicity poses significant challenges, hindering broader adoption as a dual-fuel alternative across various ship types.

The agreement highlights HHI's innovative twin skeg design for an ultra-large container ship (ULCS). This 365-meter vessel features two small-bore engines currently available on the market, and its ammonia fuel tanks are strategically positioned ahead of the engine room, well away from the deckhouse. This design choice enhances safety during fuel supply operations and improves crew habitability. Notably, this design is the first of its kind to incorporate ammonia-powered dual-fuel engines for ULCS, addressing the concerns of ship owners who are hesitant to implement ammonia dual-fuel systems without proven engine types for large vessels.

The project aims to conduct a thorough safety review, which will include a feasibility assessment for ammonia fuel tanks constructed from low-temperature steel and an evaluation of the vessel's structural integrity against sloshing loads. Additionally, the fuel gas supply system will be reviewed to ensure its safety and compatibility with ammonia.

LR's involvement ensures that the design adheres to the necessary safety and operational efficiency standards for using ammonia as a marine fuel. They will also provide technical guidance to facilitate further design advancements. Kim Young-Doo, GTSO Representative for Korea at Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the growing demand for container vessels equipped with innovative technologies that align with stringent regulations and environmental standards for zero carbon emissions. He noted that LR is leading efforts to meet the maritime sector's need for advanced design development and approval of ammonia-fueled vessels, thereby granting clients access to cutting-edge ship design and propulsion advancements.

Jeon Seung-ho, Head of the Shipping Technology Division at HHI, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing collaboration with LR in developing and testing the feasibility of an ammonia dual-fuel container ship. He pointed out the urgent need for sustainable fuel solutions within the maritime industry and highlighted that this project aims to enhance understanding of ammonia as a marine fuel, paving the way for future shipbuilding initiatives.

Lloyd’s Register is at the forefront of promoting the safe and sustainable use of ammonia fuel in the containership sector. Through its "Fuel for Thought" alternative fuel report series, LR has solidified its expertise in aiding companies in adopting ammonia as a fuel source. Their services encompass comprehensive HAZID, HAZOP, and quantitative risk assessments, along with several approvals in principle for vessel designs and advancements in technical rule development. As a safety-focused, fuel-agnostic organization, LR aims to establish a secure framework for the ammonia cargo market and its integration with other fuels.