Korean Register (KR) has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a methanol-fuelled MR tanker, jointly developed by KR, South Korean shipbuilder K Shipbuilding and equipment manufacturer S&SYS .
As part of the Joint Development Project (JDP) between the three companies, the MR tanker is designed as a dual-fuel vessel, harnessing the power of marine gas oil (MGO) and methanol. The vessel incorporates two methanol fuel tanks positioned on the port and starboard sides of the open deck.
K Shipbuilding spearheaded the vessel’s basic design and the methanol fuel tank design, while S&SYS undertook the development of the fuel supply system. KR ensured the safety and regulatory compliance of the design by thoroughly reviewing national and international regulations, leading to the issue of the AIP for the methanol-fuelled MR tanker.
With an increasing focus on reducing GHG emissions in the maritime industry, the adoption of decarbonised alternative fuels has become imperative. Initiatives like the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ package, targeting a minimum 55% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030, have underscored the urgency for shipping companies to explore viable solutions. Consequently, many major shipping companies have recently placed orders for methanol dual fuel vessels.
Methanol possesses significant advantages as a marine fuel. It is a liquid fuel similar to bunker fuel at room temperature, eliminating the need for pressurisation. Compared to extreme temperature fuels like LNG at -162 deg C, hydrogen at -253 deg C, and ammonia at -34 deg C, methanol is easier to store and transport. Furthermore, it is considered a green fuel with strong potential for commercialiSation in the maritime sector due to its technical feasibility, less toxic nature compared to ammonia, and lower technical requirements compared to LNG fuel.
Lee Hyungchul, KR Chairman and CEO said: “KR remains committed to advancing decarbonised alternative fuel technologies, with a particular focus on providing technical support for decarbonisation efforts. The ‘Methanol Fuelled MR Tanker’ joint development project stands as a testament to KR’s dedication to driving the industry’s transition towards greener solutions.”
Jang Yoonkeun, CEO K Shipbuilding said: “We are delighted to see that our years of hard work to develop green-fuelled vessels has resulted in today’s AIP for the methanol-fuelled MR tanker. We will further improve our technologies and pursue innovations to contribute to maritime decarbonisation.”
