ABS Gives Nod to Hanwha Ocean's LNG-to-Ammonia Fuel Switch Design

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has given Hanwha Ocean approval in principle for its multi-purpose fuel tank and integrated fuel gas supply system design. This enables an LNG carrier to switch from LNG to ammonia fuel without replacing the fuel tank or fuel gas supply system.

The system can supply either LNG or ammonia to the gas turbine, allowing a transition from one fuel source to another. ABS reviewed the design against relevant class and international requirements, finding it feasible for use on electrically propelled LNG carriers powered by a gas turbine.

ABS Senior Vice President of Global Engineering Gareth Burton commented that 'fuel flexibility is a practical requirement for owners navigating an evolving regulatory environment.' He added that this design directly addresses the challenge of achieving fuel flexibility without tank replacement.

This approval comes as part of a series of related projects between ABS and Hanwha Ocean, including AiP for an ammonia gas turbine propulsion system in 2023 and a gas dispersion study of a 174,000 cbm LNG carrier with an ammonia gas turbine in 2024.