Swiss marine power company WinGD has entered into a collaboration agreement with shipowner and operator AET and maritime academy Akademi Laut Malaysia (ALAM) to develop technology and training on ammonia engines.
The agreement will see the partners work toward the introduction of X-DF-A ammonia-fueled engines on vessels – which would be among the first ammonia dual-fueled tankers in the world. The project timeframe is in line with WinGD’s previously announced roadmap, bringing the first engines for Suezmax or Aframax tankers into service in 2025.
“I am pleased that we were able to formalize the collaboration with WinGD to develop the required ammonia engines and training materials that will help seafarers to safely manage the new generation of zero-emission vessels,” said Zahid Osman, president and CEO of AET. “The outcomes of this collaboration will support AET and MISC Group to deliver on our commitment to deliver more energy with lower emissions.”
WinGD will develop a crew training syllabus and support its implementation, preparing some of the first seafarers in the world on ammonia-fueled vessels to handle the new fuel and engines. The arrangement will enable ALAM to train its seafarers and supervisors on the operation, maintenance, monitoring, repair, and health and safety procedures specific to the new engines.
“This cooperation between engine designer, shipowner and training institution marks a powerful push toward realizing the potential of ammonia as a maritime fuel,” added Rudolph Holtbecker, director of operations at WinGD. “As well as preparing our engines for integration within a key vessel type, the training developed under this project will feed into the knowledge pool needed for operators and their crews to confidently, safely and efficiently operate these new-fuel vessels.”