MSC Ammonia Container Ship Design Gets DNV Approval

An MSC-led consortium has achieved a significant milestone with DNV approval for their cutting-edge ammonia-fuelled container ship design. This development is a pivotal step towards integrating ammonia as a viable future marine fuel, accelerating the shipping industry’s decarbonization efforts and promoting sustainable maritime transport.

Innovative Design for Sustainable Shipping

The approved 21,700 TEU ultra-large container vessel design is a collaborative effort by container giant MSC, shipyard Zhoushan Changhong International, and CIMC ORIC. It incorporates advanced dual-fuel ammonia main engines, complemented by C-type ammonia tanks. Furthermore, the design prioritizes energy efficiency, featuring high-efficiency propellers and sophisticated hydrodynamic optimization measures to enhance fuel performance and reduce emissions.

Advancing Ammonia as a Marine Fuel

Ammonia is increasingly recognized as a key alternative fuel to help shipping achieve its ambitious decarbonization goals. While its toxic properties necessitate stringent safety protocols, this DNV approval reinforces confidence in ammonia’s potential. Norbert Kray, Senior Vice President for DNV Greater China, highlighted that the Approval in Principle (AiP) demonstrates alignment with leading industry safety standards, solidifying ammonia’s role as a feasible fuel solution for large container vessels and paving the way for a greener future in maritime operations.