KR has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) for the methanol dual-fuel retrofit design of HMM's 16K container ship, developed in collaboration with HD Hyundai Marine Solution, HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) and HD E&T.

In this project for a 16 TEU container ship operated by HMM, the largest container carrier in Korea, HD Hyundai Marine Solution was responsible for the overall system configuration and basic design work.

HD E&T provided 3D modeling and detailed design, while HD KSOE was tasked with the design and engineering of the company's newly developed Low Flashpoint Fuel Supply System (LFSS). In addition, HD HHI's large methanol dual-fuel engines, HiMSEN methanol engine, and methanol tank technology were applied to the system design.

Methanol is gaining traction as a next-generation alternative fuel because it can significantly reduce pollutant emissions such as sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and greenhouse gases compared to conventional marine oil. It can be stored and transported on ships without additional equipment. As a result, approximately 200 methanol-powered vessels are being ordered or retrofitted, primarily by major global shipping companies such as Maersk, CMA-CGM and HMM.

"In line with the eco-friendly and decarbonization trend, the engineering-based eco-friendly retrofit business is emerging as a promising sector," said an official from HD Hyundai Marine Solution at the ceremony. "We plan to further expand our business scope to include LNG-methanol-ammonia dual-fuel propulsion retrofit, LNG re-liquefaction system retrofit, and FSRU retrofit for old LNG carriers.”