MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES) has announced a critical milestone in its pursuit of dual-fuel ammonia engine technology, with the commencement of full-scale testing of its ME-LGIA (Liquid Gas Injection Ammonia) engine at the company’s Research Centre Copenhagen (RCC). This development is a major step forward in the adoption of ammonia as a cleaner fuel alternative in the maritime industry, aligning with decarbonization goals and the global push for greener shipping solutions.
Advancing Ammonia Engine Technology
The ME-LGIA engine is a dual-fuel, two-stroke solution designed to operate on ammonia, a zero-carbon fuel widely regarded as a promising alternative for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the maritime sector. The full-scale testing follows over 12 months of rigorous single-cylinder trials, during which the team fine-tuned safety protocols and operational parameters.
Ole Pyndt Hansen, Head of Two-Stroke R&D at MAN Energy Solutions, remarked:
“Having already completed more than 12 months of testing on a single cylinder running on ammonia, it’s a significant milestone to be able to step up to full-scale engine testing. We have been busy with the conversion process over the past few months, including ensuring that all safety provisions work according to our requirements. We are now ready for the next phase that will focus on, among other parameters, combustion and emissions, engine-tuning, atomizer testing, and control-system verification.”
The testing phase, projected to continue until mid-2025, will emphasize key technical areas such as combustion optimization, emissions reduction, and fine-tuning of control systems, ensuring the engine meets both performance and safety standards.
Meeting Market Demand
The maritime sector’s interest in alternative fuels has surged as shipowners and operators face stricter environmental regulations and market demands for decarbonization. The ME-LGIA engine positions MAN Energy Solutions as a leader in this transition, offering a solution tailored for the emerging ammonia bunkering market.
Bjarne Foldager, Head of Two-Stroke Business at MAN Energy Solutions, added:
“The market is hungry for any news related to our ME-LGIA development, and this, the beginning of testing on the world’s first two-stroke, full-scale ammonia engine, is a major milestone. MAN Energy Solutions is proud to be a pioneer within the new segment of ammonia engines, but it is equally important for us to show the world that we are moving forward cautiously in a reliable and safety-first way.”
Implications for the Bunkering Industry
As the technology matures, the development of the ME-LGIA engine is expected to catalyze investments in ammonia bunkering infrastructure. Ports, Bunker suppliers, and shipowners alike are closely monitoring advancements in ammonia propulsion, which could significantly impact fuel supply chains and the operational landscape of shipping.
By undertaking full-scale testing, MAN Energy Solutions is not only addressing the technical challenges of ammonia as a marine fuel but also demonstrating its commitment to safe and reliable implementation. This approach is essential to fostering confidence across the maritime industry as it embraces alternative fuels.
About MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES)
MAN Energy Solutions is at the forefront of enabling customers to achieve sustainable value creation as the world transitions towards a carbon-neutral future. The company addresses tomorrow’s challenges across the marine, energy, and industrial sectors by enhancing efficiency and performance at a systemic level. With over 250 years of experience in advanced engineering, MAN Energy Solutions boasts a unique portfolio of cutting-edge technologies tailored to meet the evolving demands of the industry.
Headquartered in Germany, MAN Energy Solutions employs approximately 14,000 people across more than 120 locations worldwide. This extensive network allows the company to deliver innovative solutions and support to its customers, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.
MAN Energy Solutions is not only committed to pioneering sustainable technologies but also prioritizes exceptional customer service through its after-sales brand, MAN PrimeServ. This brand offers a vast network of service centers globally, ensuring that clients have access to expert support and resources whenever needed. By integrating advanced engineering capabilities with a customer-centric approach, MAN Energy Solutions is leading the way toward a more sustainable future for the marine and energy industries.
Source MAN Energy Solutions