Globally renowned Tokyo –based classification society, ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of an ammonia-fuelled Panamax bulk carrier, developed by Planning and Design Center for Greener Ships (GSC).
Ammonia is expected to be used as decarbonised fuel for ships, since it does not emit CO2 when burned. However, taking adequate safety measures are impartial and cannot be ignored, due to this fuel’s characteristics of being toxic to humans and corrosive against materials.
‘Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels’
ClassNK published its ‘Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels’ in August 2021
While international standards for using ammonia as ship fuel are yet to be developed, ClassNK published its ‘Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels’ in August 2021, in order to minimise the risks related to ammonia-fuelled ships for the vessels, crews, and the environment, by stipulating requirements for installation, controls and safety devices.
For the design developed by Planning and Design Center for Greener Ships (GSC), ClassNK reviewed the ammonia treatment measures, the piping diagram of the fuel supply system, identification of hazardous areas, while taking into account the flammability and toxicity of ammonia, and the evacuation routes, in case of emergencies, in line with the ClassNIK’s guidelines.
Approval in Principle for ammonia-fuelled bulk carriers
Verifying the conformity to their requirements, ClassNK has issued the Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of ammonia-fuelled bulk carriers. GSC member shipbuilders in Japan are expected to utilise the approved basic design information for their upcoming product development of ammonia-fuelled bulk carriers.
ClassNK will continue participating in innovative initiatives, which are related to decarbonisation. By incorporating the expertise obtained from the collaborative work with frontrunners into its rules and guidelines, ClassNK will support the decarbonisation of the entire industry.