LR approves ammonia dual-fuel design for Trafigura’s new MGCs

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has confirmed the successful completion of a joint development project designing ammonia dual-fuel systems for Trafigura’s new medium gas carriers (MGCs).

LR approves ammonia dual-fuel design for Trafigura’s new MGCs

LR conducted a thorough design evaluation and safety assessment, approving the systems in line with its rules and international regulations.

The Singapore-based commodity trader signed a 2024 contract with HD Hyundai Mipo (HMD) to build four 45,000 cubic metre MGCs, powered by WinGD ammonia dual-fuel engines and Alfa Laval’s Ammonia Release Mitigation System.

The vessels, designed to carry LPG and ammonia, will be built at HMD’s Ulsan shipyard, with deliveries expected by 2028.

Andrea Olivi, Global Head of Shipping for Trafigura, said: “EU regulations have been crucial in allowing us to execute this order.

“If we are to decarbonise freight and increase the demand for zero-carbon fuels across the world, we need the IMO to implement regulations including EU ETS and Fuel EU maritime on a global scale.

“The IMO needs to introduce a simple and transparent policy framework including, in our view, a global fuel standard combined with a straightforward levy applied equally across the board.”

Lee, Dong-jin, Head of the Initial Design Division and the Detailed Design Division at HD Hyundai Mipo, stated: “We will focus on securing new environmental technologies to preoccupy future markets by actively utilising design and construction experience and synergy accumulated over long period of time with HD Hyundai shipbuilding affiliates.”

In March, LR announced that it would use generative AI to provide capabilities built using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, bridging the gap between terrestrial and marine applications.