Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) has granted approval in principle (AiP) to Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) for a design of Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) for ammonia, which MOL and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. collaboratively designed.
This AiP provides MOL with further certainties in the design and development of ammonia FSRU, the technology that allows for large-scale storage and distribution of seaborn ammonia.
MOL aims to contribute to the development of the ammonia value chain as an alternative carbon neutral fuel by introducing the ammonia FSRU idea. A FSRU reportedly obtains liquified gas at sea, vaporises it, and transports it ashore.
FSRU has reduced construction costs and a shorter building duration than comparable onshore facilities. MOL has obtained extensive expertise operating FSRUs for liquefied natural gas (LNG).
READ: ClassNK issues AiP for Samsung’s ammonia fuel supply system
MOL, in collaboration with ClassNK and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding, undertook a hazard identification study (HAZID) in order to apply for this AiP, and identified hazards and related risks to be addressed in the design of the ammonia FSRU.
MOL reportedly conducted a gas dispersion research before to the HAZID. The results of the gas dispersion research were employed in the HAZID, allowing the HAZID team to more objectively analyse risks and narrow down particular preventative and countermeasures against ammonia leaks.
The MOL Group intends to use this knowledge to further pursue the business development of ammonia FSRUs.
This month, NYK Line signed a time charter contract with MOL for the transport of ammonia.
Additionally, MOL announced that it will issue ‘blue bonds’ through a public offering in Japan’s domestic market early next year.
