(Commonwealth) _ Mitsui E&S has achieved a significant breakthrough in advancing hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel by successfully demonstrating hydrogen combustion in a large marine two-stroke engine. This achievement signifies a shift from previous testing, which predominantly concentrated on hydrogen derivatives such as ammonia. Collaborating with MAN Energy Solutions, Mitsui E&S has announced that this successful test yields crucial insights for the direct utilization of hydrogen as a maritime fuel.
In the course of the test, Mitsui E&S converted one of the four cylinders within a MAN B&W two-stroke LNG-fired gas injection engine to run on hydrogen. The remaining cylinders continued their operation with conventional fuel, serving as a benchmark for comparison. High-pressure hydrogen from Mitsui E&S’s previously established facility was directed to the converted cylinder.
This groundbreaking demonstration not only showcases the adaptability of hydrogen in a large marine engine but also underlines the potential for hydrogen as a direct and primary fuel source in maritime applications. The collaboration with MAN Energy Solutions emphasizes the importance of partnerships in driving innovation and technological advancements in the realm of alternative fuels for the shipping industry.
The successful conversion of a cylinder to hydrogen operation is a critical step in proving the feasibility and efficacy of hydrogen combustion in a real-world marine engine setting. As the maritime industry explores cleaner and more sustainable fuel options, this achievement by Mitsui E&S and MAN Energy Solutions contributes valuable insights toward the broader goal of reducing the environmental impact of shipping operations through the adoption of hydrogen as a viable maritime fuel.
The hydrogen-fueled cylinder operated without any issues such as hydrogen leakage, achieving a 100 percent load fueled by hydrogen. While hydrogen fuel ignites easily, proper combustion control is required, according to the company. Mitsui successfully covered 95 percent of the heat value with hydrogen fuel, and the cylinder pressure curve matched that of the other three cylinders operating on conventional fuel. The hydrogen gas supply facility demonstrated its capability to stably supply high-pressure hydrogen needed for the engine. Five percent of the emissions during testing originated from pilot fuel.
Mitsui, as a licensor of MAN, collaborated closely with the German engine company on the research project. MAN Energy Solutions expressed satisfaction with the achieved results, considering the project “very interesting” and providing valuable insights. Bjarne Foldager of MAN Energy Solutions emphasized the advantages and flexibility of two-stroke engine technology and highlighted their readiness for the future use of both hydrogen derivatives and hydrogen as a direct fuel.
MAN Energy Solutions is taking proactive steps in the exploration of hydrogen applications, focusing on both two-stroke and four-stroke engine segments. With an emphasis on hydrogen as a potential fuel source for maritime use, the company is committed to evaluating the results of the recent hydrogen combustion test as a milestone in advancing the adoption of hydrogen within the maritime sector.
The company’s engagement in hydrogen exploration aligns with the broader industry trend towards sustainable and environmentally friendly fuel alternatives. MAN Energy Solutions recognizes the significance of the successful hydrogen combustion test in demonstrating the feasibility of utilizing hydrogen as a key maritime fuel. This strategic evaluation reflects the company’s dedication to staying at the forefront of technological advancements that contribute to a more sustainable future for the shipping industry.
Concurrently, Mitsui E&S views this achievement as a noteworthy progression in its ongoing endeavors to establish hydrogen-related businesses within the maritime sector. The successful hydrogen combustion in a large marine two-stroke engine signifies a tangible step forward in realizing the practical applications of hydrogen in the maritime industry. Mitsui E&S’s commitment to launching hydrogen-related ventures underscores the growing importance of hydrogen as a transformative element in the maritime energy landscape.
