An introduction of future fuels on working ship for GHGs reduction: Trailing suction hopper dredger case study

Abstract

This paper examines technical feasibility of implementation of future fuels on Trailing Suction Hopper Dredger (TSHD) working ship, with goal to reduce GHGs. In order to determine suitable future fuel for that purpose, the analysis of fuel efficiency, emissions and environmental impact, viability, availability, safety regulations preparedness and current market engine solutions is done first, and methanol, ammonia and hydrogen are chosen as possible choices. Among them, methanol and ammonia are chosen for further detailed examination of their possible implementation with retrofit of a TSHD prototype fuelled by marine diesel oil (MDO), thus enabling comparison of design versions. After evaluation of design versions for operational, safety and risk, and ecological properties, the marine methanol fuel (MMF) proves its technical feasibility for implementation on TSHD ship, while ammonia failed to satisfy risk reduction requirements from the authorities. Although methanol fuel does not reduce GHGs completely, it enables “green transition” towards fulfilling of IMO future goals of zero carbon emission. The hydrogen is not assessed here because of the technological readiness level not as close in sight as for ammonia and methanol.