A vessel designed by Japan’s Sasaki Shipbuilding and supported by heavy hitter Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) has secured an approval in principle (AiP) from classification society Bureau Veritas
Bureau Veritas and MOL have been studying the potential of ammonia bunkering since 2022, creating a foundation for this AiP which was presented on 25 March.
Sasaki Shipbuilding specialises in constructing small and medium-sized vessels. The 12,000-m3 ammonia bunkering vessel is based on Bureau Veritas’ class rules.
The class society said the integration of the methanol dual-fuel system into a 9,000-dwt vessel demonstrates the technology’s feasibility for smaller-scale ships, highlighting its adaptability and efficiency as a marine fuel.
Despite the existence of similar systems on larger vessels, Bureau Veritas believes the AiP reaffirms the potential of methanol for environmentally friendly propulsion in diverse maritime applications.
For the purpose of the AiP, Bureau Veritas conducted a comprehensive review of Sasaki’s methanol dual-fuel system, meticulously assessing its compliance with the requirements outlined in BV’s Rule Note NR 670 - Methanol & Ethanol Fuelled Ships.
NR 670 provides requirements for the arrangement, installation, control and monitoring of machinery, equipment and systems using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel to minimise the risk to the ship, its crew and the environment.
Bureau Veritas senior vice president and chief executive, North Asia and China, Alex Gregg-Smith said, “Bureau Veritas is committed to supporting the development and adoption of new fuels, such as methanol, as part of our broader mission to drive environmental stewardship and innovation within the industry.”
“The adoption of methanol dual-fuel systems on vessels of this size underscores the versatility and practicality of methanol as a marine fuel. We commend Sasaki for its dedication to sustainability and look forward to furthering our partnership in developing innovative solutions for the maritime industry.”
Riviera Maritime Media’s Marine Propulsion Webinar Week, held 7-10 May 2024, will assess the viability of ammonia, hydrogen, LNG, methanol, nuclear and biofuels as options to power the world fleet through to 2030 and beyond. Use this link for more information and to register for these webinars
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