With the first vessel, FPS Maas, in the final phase of its retrofit, Holland Shipyards Group has started working on the retrofit of Future Proof Shipping’s second vessel FPS Waal to sail on hydrogen power. With six fuel cell modules, the FPS Waal will have a fuel cell capacity of 1.2 MW.
The FPS Waal, measuring 110 x 11.40 metres, follows a pre-paved path towards zero-emissions shipping. The long lead components, such as the six Ballard FC WAVE fuel cells, the AYK batteries, and electric propulsion motor have been ordered and cutting of the steel for the new technical space will be starting soon.
Later, the vessel will arrive at the Holland Shipyards Group yard and is expected to enter service five months after arrival.
Also read: Holland Shipyards to deliver 3D printed autonomous ferry to Paris
Retrofit
Like its “sister” vessel, the FPS Waal will have a complete retrofit. The internal combustion technology will be replaced with hydrogen technology, removing the main engine with a reduction gearbox.
The diesel engine driving the bow thruster and the diesel generators will be replaced by a new modular propulsion system. This consists of electric motors, hydrogen tanks, a PEM fuel cell system (for converting hydrogen into electricity power) and a battery system.
For this second ship, an innovative cooling and ventilation system will be applied, carried out with a subsidy from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy. Following the retrofit, the vessel will have a cargo capacity of 200 TEU, but provisions will be made for an additional push barge.
Also read: Ballard supplies fuel cells for FPS Waal retrofit
Rhine route
Future Proof Shipping’s FPS Waal will be operating the Rotterdam–Duisburg route on the Rhine, one of Europe’s busiest waterways. With this retrofit, the company enables cargo companies to ship their containers emissions-free on this route.
Picture: Future Proof Shipping’s FPS Waal.
Also read: EST-Floattech to supply batteries for FPS Maas hydrogen retrofit
