- DNV granted AiP to MARIC for an ammonia-ready Kamsarmax bulk carrier with a reinforced hull and reserved space for future ammonia fuel systems.
- The vessel features a wide beam, shallow draft, and WAPS compatibility for improved cargo capacity and fuel efficiency.
- It includes 4,500 CBM ammonia tanks, enabling a range of over 15,000 nautical miles.
- The AiP supports industry efforts to advance green shipping and low-carbon maritime operations.
During Singapore Maritime Week, DNV awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to MARIC for its newly designed ammonia-ready Kamsarmax bulk carrier. This vessel features a 229-meter length and an expanded beam of 38 meters, optimizing cargo volume while maintaining the same draft. WAPS (wind-assisted propulsion system) is also ready, offering additional fuel efficiency benefits.
Advancing Green Shipping Technologies
The adoption of green ammonia as a viable marine fuel is gaining momentum, particularly in the bulk carrier segment, with the first non-gas carrier ammonia-fuelled vessel orders placed in 2024. To support this shift, MARIC’s design incorporates structural reinforcements and reserved space for the integration of ammonia tanks and fuel systems, ensuring a seamless transition to ammonia-powered operations. The vessel is capable of covering over 15,000 nautical miles at design speed on ammonia fuel.
Strategic Industry Collaboration
MARIC’s Vice President, Jianzhang Zhu, emphasized the strategic partnership with DNV in driving innovation in green shipping. He highlighted the importance of overcoming technical and operational challenges associated with ammonia as a marine fuel while contributing to global decarbonization efforts. Similarly, Øyvind Pettersen, Head of Technical Centre China at DNV Maritime, recognized the milestone, stressing the necessity of innovation and strict safety standards in adopting ammonia as a fuel.
Regulatory Framework and Industry Guidance
DNV has been actively shaping the regulatory landscape for ammonia-fueled vessels, with classification rules published in 2021 and subsequent updates in 2022 and 2023. The Fuelled Ammonia class notation provides shipowners with a structured approach to building ships equipped for future ammonia propulsion. Additionally, DNV’s latest white paper, “Safe Introduction of Alternative Fuels – Focus on Ammonia and Hydrogen as Ship Fuels,” offers insights and guidance on implementing these alternative fuels.
Ensuring Safe and Sustainable Innovation
Approval in Principle (AiP) serves as an independent validation of a vessel concept, confirming feasibility and ensuring that no major technical barriers exist. The collaboration between DNV and MARIC strengthens confidence in ammonia as a marine fuel and represents a significant step toward achieving a more sustainable and efficient shipping industry.
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Source: DNV
