ClassNK issues world’s first approval in principle (AiP) for bunkering boom for ammonia fuel
- Contributing to initiatives to build ammonia fuel supply chain through certificate to new technologies-
Tokyo – ClassNK has granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a groundbreaking design concept of an ammonia fuel bunkering boom, collaboratively developed by Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line) and TB Global Technologies Ltd. This marks the first-ever AiP certification for an ammonia fuel bunkering boom design.
As the maritime industry looks to ammonia fuel to achieve decarbonization, bunkering vessels and related equipment will become crucial components in the fuel supply chain. However, the novelty of such equipment poses challenges in confirming their safety using existing regulations.
Addressing this, ClassNK has issued “Guidelines for Technology Qualification,” which establish a certification process to ensure new technologies achieve safety levels comparable to those designed under current standards. These guidelines provide a risk-based approach to safety assessment for new technologies.
ClassNK reviewed the basic design drawings of the bunkering boom, in accordance with part N of its “Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships” for vessels carrying liquefied gases in bulk. Additionally, they reviewed the necessary documents per the “Guidelines for Technology Qualification.” After verifying compliance with all requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.
ClassNK remains committed to supporting advanced decarbonization efforts through rigorous safety assessments and more.
Ship-to-ship fuel transfer equipment installed on bunkering ships.
The “world’s first” claim is as of July 31, 2024, according to TB Global, the entity responsible for obtaining the AiP.
Images of ammonia bunkering vessel and ammonia bunkering boom for illustration purposes only (courtesy of NYK).
