Swiss marine power company WinGD has unveiled a new development in its X-DF-A ammonia-fueled engines, offering ship operators the option to equip vessels with an engine capable of running on liquified petroleum gas (LPG). This innovative “pre-fit” solution, named the X-DF-P, is designed to cater to vessels involved in both the emerging global ammonia trade and the transport of LPG, providing flexibility for shipowners who anticipate operating across both markets.
The X-DF-P solution, which references propane as LPG’s primary component, is set to debut in 2027. It will allow ship operators to initially run their vessels on LPG with the option to switch to ammonia at a later stage, minimizing the need for significant engine modifications. This dual capability is particularly appealing to shipowners constructing vessels now but unsure of the exact timing of the ammonia trade’s full emergence or the future availability of ammonia as a bunker fuel.
Sebastian Hensel, Vice President of Research and Development at WinGD, emphasized the importance of this development, stating: “This development highlights our continuous innovation in support of smarter sustainable ship power solutions. Our X-DF-A ammonia engine is already enjoying wide uptake amongst bulk carriers and gas carriers; the X-DF-P offers a valuable intermediate step for gas carrier operators who are keen to participate in the emerging ammonia trade but are uncertain about the timing and impact on vessel engines and fuels.”
Expanding Ammonia Trade and Flexibility for Operators
Ammonia is increasingly seen as a key energy carrier in global trade, particularly for its potential to transport hydrogen produced from renewable sources over long distances. The X-DF-P solution, therefore, positions operators to take part in this rapidly growing market. By enabling ships to switch between ammonia and LPG, the system provides operators with greater flexibility to adjust their operations based on market demands and fuel availability.
WinGD’s X-DF-A engines, designed specifically for ammonia, are already generating interest, with multiple orders from ship operators planning to participate in ammonia trade using multi-gas carriers, very large gas carriers (VLGCs), or dedicated very large ammonia carriers (VLACs). The X-DF-P package offers a transitional option, ensuring that vessels can continue to operate efficiently with LPG while preparing to switch to ammonia when the infrastructure and market for ammonia bunkering mature.
Engine Capabilities and Technical Specifications
The X-DF-P engine package is expected to be available for engine sizes typically found on trade-relevant vessels, including the 52- and 62-bore engines commonly used in large gas carriers. The technology behind the X-DF-A ammonia engine includes an advanced injection system, which can be adapted for LPG use with minor modifications, thanks to the similar material requirements for both fuels.
This flexibility allows operators to future-proof their vessels, enabling them to respond to shifts in global fuel markets while maintaining efficiency and reliability in their operations.
Industry Impact
With the global push toward decarbonization and the growing interest in ammonia as a clean marine fuel, WinGD’s development of the X-DF-P engine represents a significant step toward enhancing the adaptability of ship power solutions. By offering a dual-fuel capability, WinGD is helping to bridge the gap between current LPG bunkering practices and the future adoption of ammonia as a sustainable fuel option, aligning with the shipping industry’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions.
This latest innovation underscores WinGD’s role as a leader in marine power technology, driving the industry toward more sustainable and efficient operations through continuous innovation.
WinGD in Brief
WinGD (Winterthur Gas & Diesel) is at the forefront of decarbonizing marine transportation through the development of sustainable energy systems that incorporate cutting-edge technologies in emissions reduction, fuel efficiency, hybridization, and digital optimization. With their two-stroke low-speed engines as the core of marine power systems, WinGD sets the industry benchmark for reliability, safety, efficiency, and environmental design. Founded in 1893 as the Sulzer Diesel Engine business, WinGD is headquartered in Winterthur, Switzerland, and continues to drive the maritime industry’s transition towards a sustainable future. WinGD is a member of the CSSC Group.
Source WinGD