Press Release

11 April 2024

Tokyo - ClassNK has awarded an approval in principle (AiP) for the ammonia fuel supply system and ammonia gas abatement system developed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.

Ammonia is expected to be used as a ship fuel for decarbonization since it does not emit CO2 when combusted. Meanwhile, adequate safety measures are imperative as it has been pointed out that ammonia is toxic to humans and corrosive to materials. ClassNK has been involved in projects aiming for zero-emission ships using ammonia fuel in terms of safety assessment, and has issued its "Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels" as a necessary standard to minimize the risks related to ammonia-fueled ships for the ships, crews, and environment by stipulating requirements for installation, controls, and safety devices.

ClassNK carried out a review of the conceptual design of the systems developed by Mitsubishi Shipbuilding for WinGD's large low-speed two-stroke ammonia-fueled engine based on Part C of its "Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels". Upon confirming they comply with the prescribed requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.

ClassNK will actively continue to take part in advanced initiatives toward decarbonization and also support the decarbonization of the entire industry by incorporating the knowledge gained through collaboration with front runners into rules and guidelines.

AiP Handover Ceremony at Sea Japan 2024

From right:
Mr. Dominik Schneiter, CEO, WinGD
Mr. Shin Ueda, President & CEO, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding
Mr. Masaki Matsunaga, Executive Vice President / Director of Plan Approval and Technical Solution Division, ClassNK

Approval in Principle (AiP):
At the initial stage of designing or before the specific target ship to be implemented is decided, the design is examined based on the existing regulations such as international conventions and ship classification rules, and an Approval in Principle (AiP) is issued as proof of conformity with requirements. It also prevents rework of regulatory aspects in the post-process, shortens the examination time at the time of class registration, and can be used as a technical basis for external appeal of the design status. For more information, visit our website.