NYK and TB Global Technologies Ltd. (TBG) have achieved an important milestone in the maritime industry. On September 18, 2024 (September 17 local time), during Gastech 2024 in Houston, U.S.A., they received approval in principle (AiP) from Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) for their ship-to-ship fuel ammonia supply system. This is the first time ever that a “bunkering boom” for ammonia-powered ships has received this type of approval. This breakthrough will help make ammonia-fueled vessels more widely used in the future.
A key feature of this system is the emergency-release mechanism developed by TBG. In case of an emergency, this system allows the fuel connection between an ammonia-fueled vessel and an ammonia bunkering vessel (ABV) to be quickly and safely disconnected.
NYK played a big role in getting this approval. They provided design data for their own ammonia bunkering vessel (ABV) and shared their expertise on safely handling ammonia. This knowledge comes from NYK’s experience in the ammonia transport business and their work with Japan’s first LNG bunkering vessel, Kaguya, which is operated by Central LNG Marine Fuel Corporation, where NYK is the largest shareholder.
NYK plans to continue working with companies both in Japan and internationally. They aim to keep developing new technologies and equipment that are safe for the crew and better for the environment.