ABS and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) have signed a joint development project (JDP) to deploy solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology as a replacement to at least one of three diesel generators typically on-board a very large crude carrier (VLCC).

This is the second JDP between ABS and DSME in connection with SOFC technology.

In 2019, the first collaboration demonstrated the high efficiency of an SOFC and gas turbine hybrid system due to the re-use of hot exhaust off-gas.

ABS North Pacific business development regional vice-president Darren Leskoski said: “SOFC systems have significant potential for applications in maritime transport and we are excited to be able to support this project, which will advance the industry’s understanding of their possibilities.

“The work builds on our experience from the first collaboration. Together ABS and DSME are shaping the vessels of tomorrow.”

DSME Naval and Energy System Research and Development Institute vice president Il Guk Woo said: “This JDP will contribute to gain knowledge on safe use and accommodation of a fuel cell system with constraints of space on the ocean going vessels, benefitting maritime sectors seeking green technology for electricity and propulsion.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Under the latest JDP, the two firms will analyse the feasibility of an SOFC system being installed on a VLCC.

DSME will select a VLCC for the study after considering analysis of load requirements, stack characterisation, system footprint prediction and emission control zone.

Simulation of process flow, arrangement of the system on the ship and risk analysis will also be taken into consideration.

ABS will assess the outcomes and evaluate safety issues arising from the arrangement of the system with respect to prevailing structures and equipment of the vessel as per the ABS Rules and Guides.

DSME plans to receive ABS’ approval for the design.

In a separate development, Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE), a shipbuilding unit of Hyundai Heavy Industries Group, has received an order for two LPG carriers.

KSOE signed a KRW116bn ($105m) contract with a Singapore-based shipping company for two 40,000m³ LPG carriers.

The ships to be built will be 180m-long, 28.7m-wide and 18.8m-tall. These will be constructed at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in Korea.

The delivery of the vessels are scheduled for September 2022.