Hyundai Heavy develops world’s first ammonia dual-fuel engine

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has completed the development of the ‘HiMSEN’ ammonia dual-fuel engine. (HD Hyundai Heavy Industries)

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has successfully developed the world’s first high-pressure direct injection ammonia dual-fuel engine, the company said on Thursday. The new engine, designed to operate on carbon-free fuel, is a significant step toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping and power generation industries.

The South Korean company recently completed formal approval testing for the new engine, called the “HiMSEN Ammonia Dual-Fuel Engine,” at its headquarters in Ulsan. The test was attended by representatives from seven global ship classification societies, further validating the engine’s potential for commercial use, and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries now plans to begin mass producing the engine.

The new engine can be applied to various types of vessels, including ammonia carriers and general commercial ships, for both propulsion and power generation. The company also aims to expand its use to the land-based power generation market.

The high-pressure direct injection method used in the engine compresses air in the combustion chamber before injecting ammonia fuel at high pressure to initiate combustion. This method not only improves engine performance and fuel efficiency but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Despite its environmental benefits, the complex technology has posed challenges for global engine manufacturers, who have struggled to overcome the technical hurdles involved in its development.