Wartsila's New Ammonia Fuel Supply System Snapped Up by Exmar

Two new medium gas carrier vessels being constructed for Exmar LPG at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard in South Korea will be equipped with Wärtsilä Gas Solutions’ Ammonia Fuel Supply Systems (AFSS).

According to Wärtsilä, this marks the first time that seafaring vessels will be powered by dual-fuel engines that can operate on ammonia.

The innovative AFSS by Wärtsilä, designed for both liquid and gas fuels, is aimed at both newly built ships and the retrofitting of existing ones. This system is particularly well-suited for integration into vessels that transport liquefied gas, making it ideal for ammonia carriers of various sizes, including very large (VLGC) and medium gas carriers (MGC).

Wärtsilä notes that the AFSS, a comprehensive fuel supply system, is also suitable for vessels complying with the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code), working efficiently with both low- and high-pressure systems.

The AFSS is comprised of a series of filters, pumps, and heat exchangers that guarantee the fuel is delivered to the engine at the necessary pressure and temperature, ensuring both stability and reliability. The system includes well-tested components, such as those needed for purge gas treatment.

Stein Thoresen, Head of Sales Marine at Wärtsilä Gas Solutions, highlighted the company's extensive expertise in ammonia handling aboard ships, spanning over five decades. "This experience, combined with our comprehensive knowledge and development of efficient cargo handling systems, has culminated in the launch of the AFSS. We view this system as a crucial component for achieving decarbonized operations. It is crafted to be both sturdy and dependable, even in the most demanding maritime conditions.”