DNV Grants Approval in Principle to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for Ammonia DF large container vessel

The project aimed at developing advanced designs to improve safety, featuring an optimized ammonia tank design, state-of-the-art fire safety systems, an enhanced ammonia release mitigation system, and improved boil-off gas (BOG) handling systems. These innovations are crucial in fostering confidence in the safe and efficient use of ammonia as a marine fuel.

Ammonia is toxic even at low concentrations, corrosive, and combustion emissions can produce significant amounts of nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas. Even minor leaks can create large toxic zones, posing risks to personnel. On container ships, where the upper deck is designated as a safe working area, an ammonia leak could be particularly dangerous. Therefore, establishing safety design criteria to manage these risks is essential for the broader commercialization of ammonia-fueled vessels.

To address this, fuel pipe leakage scenarios were identified and quantitatively analyzed using gas dispersion analyses. The findings revealed that conventional systems could result in toxic areas with hazardous ammonia concentrations across the entire weather deck due to foreseeable small leakages at connections within the ammonia piping system. This underscores the necessity for effective mitigation measures. The results indicated that the enhanced ammonia release mitigation system significantly reduced hazardous areas, promoting safer enclosed spaces and improving safety across the entire weather deck of the vessel.

Seung-ho Jeon, SEVP, CTO of HD HHI commented, “The AiP reflects HD HHI’s dedication to developing sustainable, innovative solutions like ammonia-fuelled vessels, which will play a key role in reducing emissions and shaping the future of shipping.”

Vidar Dolonen, DNV Regional Manager Korea and Japan, stated: "This AiP highlights the importance of safety in moving the maritime industry along the path to decarbonization. There are many aspects to building out zero carbon fuels in shipping, and it’s essential that we have them all in place for ammonia to truly establish itself in the marine fuel market. But with new technological solutions, alongside rigorous safety procedures, ammonia reach its full potential as one of the most promising green fuels. DNV is proud to support these advancements from HD HHI as we continue on this journey to an even more sustainable maritime industry.”