ClassNK, Fukui forge alliance on hydrogen valve tech

Fukui Seisakusho Co., Ltd. and ClassNK have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for joint consideration of ultra-high pressure safety relief valves designed for use in hydrogen dual-fuel engines.

ClassNK, Fukui forge alliance on hydrogen valve tech

Both parties agreed in 2023 to jointly conduct a study for the installation of safety relief valves for cargo tanks of liquefied hydrogen carriers on actual ships.

As a result of this study, a type approval certificate for the PILOT-type low-pressure safety relief valve (PSL-MD type) was issued this year.

Based on this achievement, they have now agreed to carry out joint consideration of ultra-high-pressure safety relief valves for hydrogen dual-fuel engines that can meet advanced technical requirements needed for hydrogen fuel supply systems.

Such requirements include material resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, sealing performance, and more.

Through this collaboration under the MoU, both parties will contribute to the social implementation of propulsion systems using hydrogen as a fuel.

The roles of each party are as follows:

Fukui: Development of RPS-type (high-pressure compatible) safety relief valves for hydrogen dual-fuel engines

ClassNK: Review of the valves based on the prescribed rules upon receiving an application for type approval

Earlier this week, ClassNK issued an approval in principle (AiP) for an ammonia-fuelled LPG/NH₃ carrier, applied for jointly by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. and MITSUI E&S Co., Ltd.