As the maritime industry shifts towards low-carbon fuels, Fugro has taken a significant step by converting its research vessel, the Fugro Pioneer, to run on methanol. This conversion is part of the MENENS (Methanol as a Step Towards Emission-Free Dutch Shipping) consortium, led by Fugro and supported by a grant from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). The goal of this initiative is to accelerate the transition to emissions-free shipping by developing adaptive methanol-based solutions.
Green Methanol as a Viable Alternative
Green methanol is recognized as one of the most feasible alternative fuels for large-scale adoption in the maritime sector, offering a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions compared to conventional marine fuels. The Fugro Pioneer is one of the first vessels to undergo this conversion, marking a crucial step towards a cleaner maritime future.
Initial Preparations at Niestern Sander Shipyard
The conversion process began with preparatory work at the Niestern Sander shipyard in Delfzijl. Two of the Fugro Pioneer’s four marine gas oil (MGO) engines are set to be replaced with methanol equivalents, while the remaining two will continue to run on diesel to ensure operational flexibility in regions where green methanol is not yet available. The new methanol engines are expected to be installed in the fourth quarter of this year.
Challenges in Electrical System Overhaul
The transition to methanol propulsion necessitates significant changes to the vessel’s electrical systems. Alewijnse, a key player in this project, is responsible for supplying and installing a new Alarm Monitoring and Control System (AMCS) and making necessary adjustments to the ship’s power management, fire protection, and CCTV surveillance systems. The installation of a methanol bunkering station, complete with fixtures and switches, is also part of Alewijnse’s scope of work.
Ensuring Safety with Methanol
While methanol offers environmental benefits, it also presents safety challenges due to its flammability. Alewijnse is addressing these concerns by employing special PLCs to monitor safety and potential fire risks during the combustion process. The company’s extensive experience with safety PLCs, particularly in industrial applications, is instrumental in ensuring a safe conversion.
Building on Experience with Alternative Fuels
Alewijnse’s experience with alternative fuels is extensive, having previously converted the Samuel de Champlain, Europe’s first dredging vessel to run on both MGO and LNG. This expertise extends to other projects, such as the Hydrocat 48 and 55 vessels, which operate on both diesel and hydrogen. This foundation of experience is being applied to the Fugro Pioneer conversion, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
The Path Ahead
The preparations for the methanol conversion have been efficiently integrated with the vessel’s five-year maintenance inspection. With the engineering design of the AMCS nearing completion, installation is set to begin while the Fugro Pioneer remains operational at sea. The final installation of the methanol engines and the switch to the new AMCS are scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year.
A Collaborative Vision for a Sustainable Future
Fugro and Alewijnse have long shared a vision of a future powered by clean energy. Their collaboration on the Fugro Pioneer project is a testament to their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Fugro’s Global Director of Fleet Services, Remko Kloos, emphasizes the importance of this project in Fugro’s journey towards climate neutrality by 2035. The Fugro Pioneer, once equipped with methanol engines, will continue its vital work in surveying and collecting geo-data for offshore wind farm construction in European waters, contributing to a greener maritime industry.
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Source: Alewijnse
