Swiss marine power company WinGD has introduced an option for its X-DF-A ammonia-fueled engines to be delivered capable of running on liquified petroleum gas (LPG).
Named X-DF-P for the propane that is LPG’s primary component, the solution will be released to enable first engine deliveries in 2027. By that time, operators are expected to “closely evaluate their strategies for balancing LPG and ammonia trades”, according to WinGD.
The engine, optimized for ammonia fuel, will operate on LPG, with a simple modification allowing for future use on ammonia.
The ‘pre-fit’ solution will be of particular interest to vessels under construction for the anticipated global trade in ammonia, the Swiss firm highlighted.
WinGD Vice President of R&D, Sebastian Hensel , noted that this development underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to innovative, sustainable ship power solutions.
The company’s X-DF-A engine has already received multiple orders from operators planning to participate in the trade through the construction of multi-gas carriers, very large gas carriers or dedicated very large ammonia carriers. Its injection system can be adjusted for LPG with minor modifications, while the material requirements of the two fuels mean that similar components can be used for each, WinGD emphasized. Engine sizes under development are those typically used by trade-relevant vessels, including 52- and 62-bore.
The ammonia trade worldwide is expected to grow significantly thanks to the chemical’s properties as an efficient energy carrier.
To remind, WinGD recently joined forces with Swedish marine technology company Alfa Laval, classification society ABS, and Korean shipbuilder K Shipbuilding (KSB) to work on the development of an ammonia-fueled medium range (MR) tanker design.
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Building on the partnership with WinGD established in late 2023, Alfa Laval has delivered two test fuel supply systems for ammonia-fueled engines, including a fuel valve train and a vent treatment systems.
The Alfa Laval FCM ammonia fuel supply system design will be validated by the end of 2024, with the first marine delivery expected by the end of 2025.