Approval in Principle From DNV For a Unique Liquid Hydrogen Carrier
The LH2 carrier with an electric propulsion system run by HiMSEN engines holds a capacity of 80,000 m³ liquid hydrogen.
HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) is awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) by DNV for its cutting-edge electric propulsion liquefied hydrogen (LH2) carrier. The vessel is designed in collaboration with industry leaders including Woodside Energy, Hyundai Glovis, and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), features HD Hyundai’s advanced liquid hydrogen tanks and an electric propulsion system powered by hydrogen dual-fuel HiMSEN engines, allowing the carrier to switch between diesel and hydrogen flexibly.
This LH2 carrier, once operational, will offer a storage capacity of 80,000 cubic metres of liquefied hydrogen. It marks a significant milestone in developing safe and efficient hydrogen transportation, crucial for building a global supply chain. The AiP, awarded by DNV, certifies that the vessel’s design concept meets all necessary safety, environmental, and technical standards.
Chang Kwang-pil, Chief Technology Officer of HD KSOE, highlighted the importance of this approval, stating, “This AiP from DNV is a crucial validation of our commitment to developing a reliable and cost-effective LH2 carrier. Achieving this goal requires collective effort across the LH2 shipping value chain, and we are committed to driving progress through continuous collaboration and innovation.”
Vidar Dolonen, DNV Regional Manager for Korea & Japan, commented that the AiP represents a “vital step towards building a global hydrogen economy” by ensuring safer and more efficient transportation of liquefied hydrogen.
Further strengthening their capabilities, HD KSOE is collaborating with 3M to develop large-scale liquid hydrogen storage tanks using 3M’s innovative Glass Bubbles, a “high strength, low density” hollow glass microsphere that enhances the insulation and workability of the tanks. This joint research project aims to evaluate the thermal insulation system and obtain classification approvals for these advanced storage solutions.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has also joined forces with Woodside Energy, Hyundai Glovis, and HD KSOE to study the development of liquid hydrogen shipping solutions. The collaborative group is evaluating the technology, safety, construction, and operational economics of a hydrogen carrier, to establish a liquid hydrogen supply chain in Asia and other regions. If successful, the project could see the construction of an 80,000 m³ hydrogen carrier, operational by 2030, running primarily on hydrogen fuel.
This project underscores the industry’s commitment to advancing hydrogen as a key fuel of the future, with HD KSOE and its partners leading the way in sustainable and innovative solutions for global energy needs.
