How does ammonia behave when it leaks in an engine room? How does a cloud of escaped ammonia disperse during bunkering operations? These and many other critical safety questions that must be understood if ammonia is to become widely adopted as a marine fuel are addressed in new ABS research.
“Safety Insights for Ammonia as a Marine Fuel” brings together the findings of advanced ABS research into the performance of ammonia on board.
Also read: ABS approval for nuclear-powered container ship
CFD simulations of ammonia dispersion
ABS performed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations using advanced tools to quantitatively assess the risks associated with ammonia dispersion in accidental leakage scenarios. ABS engineers examined realistic bunkering situations such as ship-to-ship, terminal-to-ship and truck-to-ship, as well as ammonia dispersion from the vessel due to a leakage incident in the engine room.
‘This publication provides a comprehensive report of ABS’ efforts to address the challenges and opportunities presented by ammonia as a marine fuel,’ says Vassilios Kroustallis, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Business Development. ‘Through detailed analysis of ammonia dispersion studies and emergency evacuation protocols, ABS is contributing to the discourse on safe and supportable maritime fuel alternatives, fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience.’
Also read: VIDEO: Port of Rotterdam trials ammonia bunkering
Detecting and visualising ammonia leakage
In addition to CFD simulation analysis, ABS leveraged the latest industry best practices and advancements in software and hardware – including acoustic cameras for detecting and visualising ammonia leakage – to provide a thorough, three-part framework for owners and operators evaluating ammonia as a cleaner fuel source:
- Proactive regulatory engagement and risk anticipation
- Development and implementation of a multifaceted safety framework, combining qualitative and quantitative risk assessments
- Real-time monitoring and optimised emergency response
A copy of the ABS publication Safety Insights for Ammonia as a Marine Fuel can be downloaded here.
Also read: ABS CEO: Net zero in shipping by 2050 must include nuclear
