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Future fuels for bulk carriers

Wingd Supports Bulk Carrier Transition To Alternative Fuels

When Swiss marine power company WinGD agreed to develop ammoniafuelled engines for a series of 210,000dwt bulk carriers being built for Belgian owner Bocimar, the term ‘future fuels’ began to appear misplaced. The aim is to have the engines — all ten of them — installed and operational as soon as 2025 and 2026. The ‘future’ is, therefore, undoubtedly close at hand.

The ships will be powered by WinGD X72DF-A two-stroke dual-fuel engines. The development work for the large bore engines is being carried out jointly by WinGD and CMB.TECH, a company that builds, designs, owns and operates large marine and industrial applications running on hydrogen and ammonia. The vessels will be the first of their kind to run on ammonia and will clearly demonstrate that large bulk carriers can successfully operate with zero-carbon fuels.

The vessels’ entry into service will come ahead of regulatory requirements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, giving operators time to gain experience with new fuel and engines. At its latest Marine Environment Protection Committee meeting in July, IMO agreed to new greenhouse gas reduction ‘indicative checkpoints’ in 2030 and 2040, including an alternative fuel use requirement of 5–10% by 2030, with specific economic and technical measures coming into force by 2027.

The Value Of Collaboration

The combustion engine is the ideal vehicle to maintain flexibility in fuel choice and is likely to remain a critical factor in achieving operational viability for all emerging alternative fuels. As the development work continues, collaboration with customers and technology providers is essential to accelerate the process.

Following successful small scale engine tests in May 2021 and full scale combustion tests in December 2022, WinGD is confident that it will have the first X-DF-A dual-fuelled ammonia engines ready for commercial introduction by 2025. This is being made possible by both the company’s in-house research investments and strong collaboration with engine and shipbuilders in China, Korea and Japan.

WinGD has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Mitsubishi Shipbuilding to prepare the X-DF-A engine for applications in a range of vessel sizes. At the same time, work is under way to ensure smooth integration with the engine’s ammonia fuel supply system. A similar agreement was signed with Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), ensuring that multiple shipbuilders and engine builders will be ready to deploy WinGD technologies as shipowners consider their options.

As WinGD’s CEO Dominik Schneiter explains: “The value of collaboration cannot be overemphasized. The various parties each bring their own expertise and experience, and this will accelerate technological innovation to enable a seamless transition to safe and reliable operation with net-zero carbon fuels.”

For both owners and operators, preparing for alternative fuel operations is as important as investing in technology. Ensuring that ship crews can familiarize themselves with operating the new engines is an essential part of the transition. WinGD is playing an active role in this area too. Earlier this year the company signed an agreement with AET tankers and its sister company Akademi Laut Malaysia to develop crew training for ammonia engines.

The Development Timeline

While ammonia is expected to be particularly viable for bulk carriers deployed to specific trades, especially those where a complementary trade in ammonia is emerging, other alternatives will also be needed in the sector. In addition to X-DF-A, WinGD is also developing its X-DF-M dual fuel engine, which can run on both methanol and conventional fuel. The use of green methanol, made with hydrogen from renewable-sourced electricity and recaptured carbon, would make ship power from these engines near zero emissions.

While introduction of the X-DF-A ammonia-fuelled engine is targeted for 2025, the timeline for the methanol-fuelled

X-DF-M engine is such that engine validation will be carried out in early 2024. The engine is expected to be commercially available by the end of that year.

Since they will be capable of operating with both conventional and alternative fuels, there is a well-established emissions abatement concept with both these engines. They will have nitrogen oxide (NOx) compliance, and the use of selected catalytic reduction (SCR) will be required only for IMO Tier III compliance.

Serving The Bulk Carrier Segment

As the Bocimar development highlights, WinGD continues to expand its customer base within the bulk sector and sees further opportunities for innovative projects as the transition to alternative fuels gathers pace. Providing the technology and support necessary to implement these changes is a key element of WinGD’s strategy.

“There is a clear incentive for owners, fuel suppliers, and technology providers to prepare for zero and near zero fuels. The IMO’s emission targets require that decarbonization is well under way by 2030. At WinGD, we are working hard to be sure that operators have the means for easy compliance,” commented Dominik Schneiter.

Navigating the digital wave in maritime operations: strength of partnership

In the dynamic world of maritime operations, the winds of change are blowing towards digitalization. As ports across the globe confront challenges like burgeoning vessel traffic, environmental sustainability, and the imperative for realtime, data-driven decisions, the role of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions has become paramount. These solutions, like Unikie POLO, are not just tools; they represent a partnership, a commitment to walking alongside ports in their digital transformation journey.

Unikie POLO, a standout SaaS solution, offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to integrate port area functions seamlessly, providing a virtual operation room adaptable to all port types. But beyond its features, what truly sets POLO apart is the strength and commitment of partnership it brings to the table. Here’s how this partnership, embedded in the very fabric of the SaaS solution, is shaping the future of maritime digitalization:

1. ENHANCED SITUATIONAL AWARENESS

Beyond just offering a tool, our partnership ensures that ports maximize the benefits of POLO’s Activity View feature. Unikie works closely with stakeholders to customize port call timelines, ensuring real-time data is always at their fingertips, leading to informed decisions.

2. GLOBAL TRACKING WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

While the Global AIS feature offers unparalleled map visibility, Unikie’s partnership ensures that this tool is tailored to the unique needs of each port, facilitating efficient planning and reducing potential conflicts.

3. CO-CREATION AND COLLABORATION

The essence of POLO’s Open Ecosystem model is partnership. By allowing stakeholders to join, share, and innovate, Unikie is not just providing a platform but fostering a community. Its commitment is to evolve with the industry, ensuring that its software remains relevant and cuttingedge.

4. SUSTAINABILITY AS A SHARED GOAL

The partnership goes beyond software. With features like emission calculations, Unikie is committed to helping ports achieve their sustainability goals. Together, it is possible to identify areas of improvement, adopt eco-friendly practices, and make a tangible difference.

5. EXCEPTION HANDLING WITH A HUMAN TOUCH

While POLO’s EvIA tool efficiently handles exceptions, the partnership ensures that ports have the support they need during unforeseen events. Unikie is available to offer solutions, guidance, and the assurance that they’re not alone.

6. A JOURNEY TOGETHER

Digital transformation is not a destination but a journey. As ports embark on this path, the partnership ensures they have a trusted ally every step of the way. From initial integration to ongoing support, Unikie is committed to making their digital journey smooth, efficient, and future-ready.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while technology and tools like Unikie POLO are reshaping the maritime sector, it’s the strength of partnership that truly makes a difference. As ports navigate the digital wave, Unikie is here to assure them that with the company by their side, they’re poised for success, sustainability, and a brighter digital future.