Hyundai Heavy Industries Claims Zero-Carbon Ammonia Dual-Fuel Engine Breakthrough

South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has achieved a significant milestone in eco-friendly shipbuilding with the development of the world’s first zero-carbon ammonia dual-fuel (DF) engine.

The groundbreaking engine utilizes a high-pressure ammonia direct injection method, marking a major advancement in marine propulsion technology, according to the shipbuilder.

The company this week announced the successful completion of model-based class approval testing for the “HiMSEN Ammonia Dual-Fuel Engine” (model: H22CDF-LA) at its Engine Technology Center in Ulsan.

The tests were conducted under the scrutiny of representatives from seven international classification societies, including ABS (USA), DNV (Norway), and LR (UK).

With the finalization of detailed examinations and compliance reviews, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries says it is poised to commence commercialization of the HiMSEN ammonia engine.

This versatile engine is designed for a range of applications, including ammonia carriers, marine power generation, propulsion, and even land-based power generation markets.

The innovative “high-pressure direct injection method” represents a significant technological leap from the previous “low-pressure premixed combustion method.” The novel approach compresses air in the engine combustion chamber before injecting high-pressure ammonia, resulting in improved output and fuel efficiency while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

To address environmental concerns, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has implemented advanced technologies such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and an Integrated Scrubber to minimize nitrogen oxide emissions and drastically reduce ammonia concentrations.

“The development of this ammonia engine has great meaning as it will be an opportunity for us to lead the market while providing an expanded eco-friendly dual-fuel engine lineup,” said a official from HD Hyundai Heavy Industries. The company aims to leverage this advanced technology to secure a leading position in the future eco-friendly ship market.

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