Ammonia-Powered Bulk Carriers: CIMC SOE’s Green Innovation

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International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Targets

As the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) targets for drastically reducing ship carbon emissions draw closer, ammonia fuel has emerged as an increasingly popular alternative among shipbuilders and owners. As a clean and efficient energy source, liquefied ammonia holds significant promise for the shipping industry. Unlike traditional heavy oil, ammonia fuel does not produce greenhouse gas emissions such as carbon dioxide upon combustion, leaving only water and nitrogen as byproducts, making it one of the most environmentally friendly marine fuels available. This contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of the shipping sector and promoting green, sustainable development. Additionally, ammonia boasts a high energy density and ease of storage, providing vessels with a stable and reliable energy supply.

Recently, Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd., (hereinafter referred to as “CIMC SOE”) successfully secured an order for liquefied ammonia fuel tanks to be used on the world’s first ammonia-powered bulk carrier. This achievement not only marks a significant milestone for CIMC SOE in the fuel tank product domain but also demonstrates the global shipping industry’s resolute stride towards a greener future.

Upon completion, these fuel tanks will be installed on the world’s first ammonia-fueled bulk carrier being constructed by Qingdao Beihai Shipyard. Qingdao SunRui, acting as the total package supplier for the ammonia fuel gas system, has partnered again with CIMC SOE following their successful collaboration on a dual-fuel bulk carrier LNG fuel tank project. Together, they will work closely to ensure the smooth delivery of this highly anticipated global project. The series of ships will be equipped with WinGD’s world-first ammonia engine, ammonia fuel gas system, and liquefied ammonia fuel tanks, truly achieving zero-carbon emission propulsion through clean fuel.

Specifications of Ammonia Fuel Tanks

For this project, which involves the ammonia fuel tanks for the world’s first ammonia-powered bulk carrier, high-pressure cylindrical tanks have been selected. Each tank will have a geometric capacity of 3,000 cubic meters, measuring 31 meters in length and 12 meters in diameter, both featuring hemispherical heads. The order comprises a total of twelve 3,000 cubic meter ammonia fuel tanks for six sets of vessels, all of which will be autonomously designed and constructed by CIMC SOE.

CIMC SOE, as a leading player in the global fuel tank industry, boasts comprehensive capabilities in tank design, construction, and project management. It offers customized cargo and fuel tank solutions for maritime applications, ranking top in the global market share for C-Type fuel tanks, and possesses robust technical reserves in B-Type and A-Type tanks. Currently, the company is constructing China’s largest 13,000 cubic meter B-Type tank and a 40,000 cubic meter A-Type tank for MGC use. Backed by a team of skilled and experienced professionals, CIMC SOE is dedicated to developing and manufacturing high-quality vessels and liquid tanks that meet international environmental standards.

The signing of the ammonia fuel tank order represents another significant breakthrough for CIMC SOE in the realm of green shipping. It is also a tangible demonstration of the company’s proactive response to the national call for green development and its commitment to driving high-quality growth within the industry. Looking ahead, CIMC SOE will continue to leverage its expertise in the fuel tank sector, constantly cultivating new productive forces, and contribute to the green and sustainable development of the global shipping industry with its own strength.

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Source: SinoPacific