WinGD, a Swiss maritime power company, has received the first Approval in Principle (AiP) for ammonia-fuelled two-stroke engines, granted by science company Lloyd’s Register (LR).
WinGD’s granted X-DF-A dual-fuel range aims to provide shipowners with confidence to implement vessel designs for the first time employing ammonia-fuelled main engines.
The first ammonia-fuelled engine to be developed, the 52-bore X52DF-A, is scheduled for available delivery in Q4 2024 and intends to be suitable for a variety of vessels such as gas and bulk carriers.
Dominik Schneiter, WinGD CEO, said: “Time is of the essence as shipping looks to clean power solutions.
This approval shows the industry that WinGD is leading the way in bringing carbon-free ammonia power
to the deep-sea fleet.
“With the support of expert partners including Lloyd’s Register, these technologies will be available long before emission targets require them, giving operators vital space to plan and gain experience.”
READ: WinGD, MESDU enhances fuel-flexible efficiency with VCR
Nick Brown, LR CEO, stated: “The maritime industry needs to trust that new technologies can
be deployed safely as it continues to evaluate multiple transition pathways.
“This AiP will give first movers confidence that, subject to subsequent care in design, build, integration and operation, this ammonia two-stroke engine can help meet that demand. LR is delighted to have worked with WinGD on this groundbreaking development.”
READ: WinGD set to deliver dual-fuel ammonia engines in 2025
Lloyd’s Register reportedly reviewed the engine safety concept, risk assessments, and preliminary engine and fuel delivery system design as part of the AiP process, as well as establishing material compatibility with ammonia fuel.
WinGD plans to expand the X-DF-A platform to a 72-bore variation in 2025, followed by various engine sizes in 2026, to accommodate a wide range of vessel types ranging from tiny tankers and vehicle carriers to extremely big tankers.
