The Marine Design and Research Institute of China (MARIC) has received approval in principle (AiP) from DNV for a new wide-beam ammonia-ready Kamsarmax bulk carrier. The vessel has a shallow draft for flexible port calls, and is WAPS (wind-assisted propulsion system) ready.
With a length of 229m and an increased beam of 38m, the design has been optimized for more cargo volume at the same draft. The hull structure is reinforced, and space is reserved for an easier retrofit of the ammonia tanks and system. The vessel can cover more than 15,000 nautical miles at design speed – fueled on ammonia.
“We are proud to announce our strategic collaboration with DNV, to pioneer the design of a 91k DWT ammonia-fueled bulk carrier,” said Zhu Jianzhang, vice president of MARIC. “This partnership underscores our commitment to advancing green shipping technologies and accelerating the maritime industry’s transition to a low-carbon future. By working together, we can overcome the technical and operational challenges associated with ammonia as a marine fuel, deliver a cutting-edge solution that aligns with global decarbonization goals, and set a new benchmark for clean, efficient and commercially viable bulk carriers.”
“Awarding MARIC this AiP is another milestone in advancing ammonia as a marine fuel,” added Øyvind Pettersen, head of the China Technical Centre at DNV Maritime. “However, realizing its potential demands both innovation and an unwavering focus on safety. This is why we value working with MARIC and their commitment to building on the foundation of the industry’s most advanced classification standards. DNV is very proud to collaborate on this AiP, which will strengthen confidence in new fuels and further shipping’s journey toward a more sustainable tomorrow.”
The first edition of DNV’s classification rules for ammonia-fueled ships was published in 2021. Updates followed in 2022 and 2023, including the Gas Fuelled Ammonia class notation, which gives owners the option to start building ships for future ammonia propulsion by setting out the requirements for the ship’s fuel system, fuel bunkering connection and piping through to the fuel consumers. A new DNV white paper, Safe introduction of alternative fuels – Focus on ammonia and hydrogen as ship fuels, provides shipowners with insights and tools to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and implement these fuels.