MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES) Launches ‘AmmoniaMot 2’ Research Project with Industry Partners and Research Institutes, Ammonia-Powered Engine to be Developed for Medium-Speed Marine Applications
MAN Energy Solutions has taken a significant step towards the decarbonization of the maritime industry by launching the ‘AmmoniaMot 2’ research project. This initiative follows the successful design and testing of the first two-stroke ammonia engine and aims to develop a cutting-edge four-stroke, medium-speed, dual-fuel test engine powered by ammonia.
The project commenced in August 2024 and is set to run for three and a half years, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK). It builds on the promising results of the previous ‘AmmoniaMot’ project, which concluded in May 2024 and focused on fundamental investigations into ammonia combustion in internal combustion engines. The new project retains collaboration with original partners while adding new contributors, including WTZ Roßlau gGmbH, Woodward L’Orange GmbH, the University of Munich (SFM), Neptun Ship Design GmbH, the University of Rostock (LKV), GenSys GmbH, and MNR GmbH.
A Commitment to Sustainable Technologies
Alexander Knafl, Head of Engineering R&D Four-Stroke at MAN Energy Solutions, stated, “For MAN Energy Solutions, this project is the next logical step after the previous AmmoniaMot project. It perfectly supports our own strategy to develop sustainable technologies, and we very much appreciate the opportunity to work with our distinguished partners. The path to decarbonizing the maritime industry starts with decarbonizing fuels, and ammonia is an excellent candidate as it is carbon-free and thus avoids CO2 emissions when used as a fuel in our engines.”
The future application of ammonia-powered four-stroke engines is envisioned primarily in newbuild projects without passengers, including cargo and special vessels, or as auxiliary generators for large ammonia-powered two-stroke vessels. For passenger vessels, such as ferries and cruise liners, MAN Energy Solutions is focusing on methanol as the fuel of the future, with concurrent development of corresponding engines.
Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Christian Kunkel, Head of Combustion Development in Four-Stroke R&D at MAN Energy Solutions, highlighted the achievements of the original AmmoniaMot project, which established a strong foundation for future developments. “We proved that ammonia is a suitable fuel for medium-speed applications, with the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90-95% while complying with existing emission regulations,” he said. “I am more than excited to take the next step with our partners in AmmoniaMot 2. There is no doubt that ammonia will become an important carbon-free fuel and significantly contribute to the decarbonization of the maritime sector.”
Collaborative Roles in the Project
Each partner in the AmmoniaMot 2 project has distinct responsibilities:
- MAN Energy Solutions: Leading the entire engine concept for marine applications, including the exhaust gas aftertreatment system.
- WTZ Roßlau gGmbH: Developing the combustion concept for the engine and testing injection components under realistic conditions.
- Woodward L’Orange GmbH: Designing the injector prototype for the engine.
- University of Munich (SFM): Conducting 3D-CFD combustion simulations.
- Neptun Ship Design GmbH: Creating the demonstrator for the high-pressure fuel-supply module for ammonia (CAPSAM), ensuring compliance with safety requirements.
- University of Rostock (LKV): Conducting experiments related to injection technology, exhaust gas aftertreatment concepts, and lubrication of ammonia engines, alongside developing simulation models based on these findings.
- GenSys GmbH: Constructing the demonstrator for the high-pressure fuel-supply module (CAPSAM).
- MNR GmbH: Developing the double-walled fuel system and compensator for the high-pressure fuel piping system for ammonia.
The collaborative efforts in the AmmoniaMot 2 project underscore the maritime industry’s commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and reducing environmental impact, paving the way for a greener future in marine operations.
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