Mitsubishi Shipbuilding's Ammonia Fuel System Receives Approval from ClassNK

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has obtained Approval in Principle (AiP) from the Japanese classification society ClassNK for an ammonia fuel supply system (AFSS) designed for the "X-DF-A," a sizeable, low-speed 2-stroke ammonia-fueled engine currently in development by WinGD, a Swiss company specializing in the design and licensing of large marine engines. The AiP presentation ceremony was held today at the "Sea Japan 2024" International Maritime Exhibition and Conference at Tokyo Big Sight.

In June 2023, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding and WinGD signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to conduct collaborative technical research on an ammonia fuel supply system (AFSS), with the aim of contributing to the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) new target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the global maritime industry by approximately 2050. This joint effort led to the finalization of the basic design for an AFSS for the "X-DF-A" engine developed by WinGD in February 2024. The acquisition of Approval in Principle (AiP) coincided with the approval of a new ammonia gas abatement system (AGAS). Moving forward, technical research will continue with WinGD toward commercialization.

As ammonia combustion produces no CO2 emissions, it garners significant attention as a promising fuel for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime sector, with potential for widespread adoption as a reliable, clean energy source in the future. Mitsubishi Shipbuilding will continue advancing its development of marine ammonia handling systems, encompassing fuel supply systems for ammonia combustion engines like the X-DF-A and others, along with various ammonia gas abatement systems. Additionally, by proposing the design and engineering of ammonia-fueled vessels and onboard facilities, which include multiple ammonia-based combustion systems such as main engines, power generation engines, and boilers, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding aims to spearhead the decarbonization of the maritime industry, facilitating the realization of a carbon-neutral society and contributing to global environmental preservation efforts.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group stands as a prominent global industrial leader, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace, and defense sectors. Harnessing advanced technology and vast expertise, MHI Group spearheads pioneering, comprehensive solutions aimed at advancing towards a carbon-neutral future, improving quality of life, and bolstering global safety.

With a network of approximately 300 domestic and international entities, MHI Group's operations encompass the full spectrum of activities, including design, manufacturing, construction, sales, after-sales service, and general services. Encouraging collaboration and innovation among its member companies, MHI Group fosters synergies that empower each entity to develop robust and distinctive business initiatives, thereby contributing to global sustainability and economic prosperity.