Korean Register (KR) and HD Hyundai Samho have entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop a water circulation system designed for the annular space of double-wall pipes in ammonia-fuelled vessels.
The partnership, aimed at improving the safety of ships powered by ammonia, was announced on 9 September at Gastech 2025 in Milan.
Ammonia, recognised as a potential carbon-free fuel for the maritime industry, poses significant safety challenges due to its toxic and corrosive nature.
Ammonia fuel pipes feature a double-wall construction, creating a ring-shaped annular space between the inner and outer pipes.
KR and HD Hyundai collaborative development initiative aims to circulate freshwater within this space to improve the safety of the fuel supply piping and reduce the risk of potential leaks into the atmosphere during operation.
HD Hyundai Samho will lead the system design and development, while KR will be responsible for verifying the system's safety.
HD Hyundai Samho executive vice president SHIM Hakmu said: “This joint development marks an important step in accelerating the transition to ammonia-fuelled vessels.
“Through collaboration with KR, we will generate technological synergies and enhance our competitiveness in the global market.”
Upon successful completion of the project, HD Hyundai Samho plans to incorporate the safety system into its ammonia-fuelled ship designs, pushing forward the commercialisation of this technology.
KR, on the other hand, aims to advocate for the establishment of relevant safety standards at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and continue to influence the international regulatory landscape regarding alternative fuels.
KR senior vice president YEON Kyujin said: “With this partnership, we aim to secure key safety technologies for ammonia-fuelled vessels at an early stage and lead the development of future international regulations.
“By working closely with shipbuilders such as HD Hyundai Samho, KR can bridge the gap between innovative design and safe, globally recognised standards.”
In a related development, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and KR have also signed an MoU to jointly develop a very large ethane carrier (VLEC).
