The Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF) has released a new report outlining crucial safety considerations for developing liquefied hydrogen bunkering systems and procedures. The report, submitted to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for further review, emphasizes hydrogen’s potential as a zero-emission marine fuel, critical to achieving the IMO’s 2050 greenhouse gas reduction targets. However, it also highlights the unique challenges associated with hydrogen bunkering compared to traditional LNG processes.
Key Observations
- Unique Properties of Hydrogen: Hydrogen’s distinct properties, especially its extremely low liquefied temperature, necessitate new approaches to bunkering. The report underscores that experiences from LNG bunkering cannot be directly applied to hydrogen, due to issues such as the potential freezing and clogging of systems by nitrogen.
- Complex Bunkering Process: The report identifies that the hydrogen bunkering process will be more complex than LNG, requiring specialized materials, insulated components, and vessel-specific procedures. The need for more automated systems and stringent crew training and certification is also emphasized.
- Enhanced Safety Measures: Given the complexities, the report advocates for updating Safety Management Systems (SMS) to address the additional risks associated with hydrogen bunkering. These updates are essential to ensure the safety of the crew and operations during the bunkering process.
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Source: Maritime Technologies Forum
