ABS – In a significant development for the maritime industry’s push toward decarbonization, an ammonia fuel supply system developed by Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases, a division of Nikkiso Co., Ltd., has received Approval in Principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). The innovative system, designed to support the industry’s transition to cleaner fuels, can be retrofitted to existing vessels or installed on new builds, providing flexibility for shipowners looking to meet sustainability goals.
Key Features of the Nikkiso Ammonia Fuel Supply System
The Nikkiso ammonia fuel supply system offers a highly efficient and integrated solution, featuring state-of-the-art pumps and an advanced fuel management system. By incorporating these technologies, the system provides shipowners and operators with the ability to retrofit their current fleet or equip new vessels with an alternative fuel source that aligns with decarbonization targets.
The approval from ABS follows comprehensive design reviews, which were based on both classification and statutory requirements. This ensures that the ammonia fuel supply system meets the highest industry standards for safety and performance.
A Milestone in Maritime Sustainability
Michael Kei, Vice President of Technology at ABS, emphasized the importance of retrofit solutions for achieving maritime sustainability goals. “The ability to retrofit is significant for the maritime industry to meet sustainability objectives,” Kei stated. “This new fuel supply system promises a solution with decarbonization benefits of alternative fuels like ammonia to be available for existing vessels near-term. Along with safety excellence, our deep technical expertise in alternative fuels and engine designs makes us the ideal classification society for innovative projects such as this from Nikkiso.”
This marks a major milestone for Nikkiso, which has a long-standing reputation as a leader in marine LNG fueling systems. The company’s expertise in the sector, combined with the advanced design of the ammonia fuel supply system, positions them as a key player in the transition to lower-carbon fuels.
Safety and Reliability at the Forefront
Konstantinos Fakiolas, Director of Marine at Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases, highlighted the system’s design principles of redundancy, enhanced reliability, and safety. “Nikkiso’s FSS for ammonia is designed under the principles of redundancy, enhanced reliability, and robustness with the highest safety standards for mitigating leakages and slippages,” said Fakiolas. Safety remains a critical concern in the adoption of alternative fuels, and the system’s focus on mitigating risks positions it as a reliable option for shipowners looking to future-proof their fleets.
ABS’s Role in Advancing Ammonia as Marine Fuel
ABS has long been at the forefront of supporting alternative fuels in the maritime sector, offering a wide range of services related to the application of ammonia and other low-carbon energy sources. The classification society’s involvement in this project underscores its commitment to advancing the adoption of sustainable fuels, ensuring that the transition to ammonia and other alternatives is done safely and efficiently.
As the maritime industry continues to seek ways to reduce emissions and meet stringent environmental regulations, the introduction of the Nikkiso ammonia fuel supply system offers a promising solution for both retrofits and new builds. With ABS’s approval, shipowners now have a viable pathway to adopt ammonia as a cleaner fuel option, helping to drive the industry’s broader decarbonization efforts.
About American Bureau of Shipping – ABS
Founded in 1862, ABS is one of the world’s leading ship classification organizations, dedicated to setting standards for safety and excellence. With more than 200 offices in 70 countries, ABS brings together a team of surveyors, engineers, researchers, and regulatory specialists who work with industry partners to solve the most pressing technical, operational, and regulatory challenges in the marine and offshore sectors. As the industry evolves, ABS remains committed to delivering practical, innovative solutions that promote safe, secure, and responsible operations.