Swiss marine power company WinGD has inked a memorandum of understanding with KSS Line to delve into the potential of X-DF-A engines for upcoming newbuild ventures. The collaborative effort will primarily center on the 52cm- and 62cm-bore versions of dual-fuel ammonia engines, tailored for midsize and very large gas carriers (VLGC). This initiative is part of WinGD’s broader strategy to harness the expertise of industry leaders across pivotal shipbuilding hubs and vessel categories, aimed at advancing its capabilities in ammonia propulsion.
The partnership’s scope transcends engine technology, encompassing a keen focus on performance optimization and maintenance solutions essential for alternative fuel adoption. Additionally, both entities are set to delve into the realm of WinGD’s Integrated Digital Expert (WiDE), which promises to furnish comprehensive insights into engine performance. This will facilitate fine-tuning of fuel efficiency and provide round-the-clock live support from seasoned engine specialists.
One noteworthy aspect of the agreement is WinGD’s commitment to providing comprehensive crew training for the new engines. The company has been progressively amassing expertise in preparing crews for the safe and reliable operation of ammonia-fuelled engines. This was underscored by WinGD’s previous accord in June, wherein they committed to developing and endorsing a training curriculum for AET Tankers and the maritime academy Akademi Laut Malaysia.
Volkmar Galke, Director Sales at WinGD, expressed optimism about the prospects of using ammonia as a fuel, especially for gas carrier vessels already equipped to carry ammonia cargo. He emphasized that the amalgamation of a rigorously tested engine design, training support, and real-time optimization via WiDE would instill confidence in KSS Line regarding the long-term viability and safety of operating ammonia-fuelled vessels.
Chando Park, CEO of KSS Line, articulated the company’s commitment to expeditiously decarbonizing its fleet, highlighting prior investments in smart ships, LPG-fuelled, and methanol-fuelled technologies. Exploring ammonia as a viable fuel source represents the next evolutionary step in their green journey. The collaboration with WinGD provides the technical backing necessary to seamlessly integrate this new fuel type into their upcoming fleet additions.
WinGD is slated to commence validation of its ammonia-fuelled engine concept on both single and multi-cylinder test engines, with testing facilities in Winterthur and Shanghai slated for later this year. This milestone follows extensive combustion concept testing initiated in 2021, complemented by rigorous simulation and rig tests aimed at comprehending the emissions characteristics and injection requisites of ammonia fuel.
The X-DF-A engine, akin to its methanol-fuelled counterpart X-DF-M, will operate on a high-pressure Diesel-cycle combustion process, featuring liquid ammonia fuel injection supported by a low proportion of pilot fuel.
