NYK’s ammonia-ready LNG-fuelled vessel aims for 2025 launch

Among the considerations in the design are: the material of the fuel tank, placement of additional tanks for ammonia (which is less energy dense than LNG), the hull structure strength and stability due to the added tank volume and weight, the ammonia gas supply system to the main engine, and class rules for safe use of ammonia fuel.

During Phase 1.5, which will continue until June 2022, NYK will design a similar concept for a capesize bulk carrier and a very large crude oil carrier. Furthermore, during Phase 2 which will last until the end of 2022, NYK will proceed with the actual design of an ARLFV with a shipyard and marine manufacturers, using results obtained in the concept design, such as the optimal fuel-tank layout, ammonia-fuel supply device, and structural strength of the hull.

Once the actual ship design is completed, NYK plans to propose potential use of an ARLFV to charterers. “We plan to offer customers ARLFV contracts in 2023 and aim to complete building the first ARLFVs in 2025,” said NYK.

NYK and MTI have established the long-term target of net-zero emissions of greenhouse gas by 2050 for the NYK Group’s oceangoing businesses. To achieve this goal, NYK is expanding its fleet of LNG-fuelled ships as a bridge solution to vessels propelled by future marine fuels, such as ammonia or hydrogen.

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