MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES) and Mitsui E&S have marked a historic milestone in the maritime sector by successfully conducting the world’s first hydrogen combustion operation of a large marine engine.
The primary goal of this initiative is to explore the viability of hydrogen as a clean and efficient fuel for maritime propulsion systems. By demonstrating the feasibility of hydrogen combustion in large marine engines, MAN ES and Mitsui E&S aim to pave the way for the development of zero-emission ships that utilize hydrogen as their primary fuel source.
The hydrogen combustion operation was conducted on a large marine 2-stroke test engine with a bore size of 50 cm at Mitsui E&S Tamano factory in Japan. Collaborating closely with MAN ES, Mitsui E&S converted one of the engine’s four cylinders to hydrogen operation, utilizing a hydrogen gas supply system developed in 2023. The successful operation encompassed various loads and operating conditions, demonstrating stable hydrogen combustion performance.
The successful demonstration of hydrogen combustion in a large marine engine holds immense potential to revolutionize the maritime industry. By significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions—up to 95% in this case—the adoption of hydrogen as a marine fuel can contribute to mitigating climate change and achieving global decarbonization goals. Furthermore, transitioning to hydrogen-powered vessels could enhance the environmental sustainability of maritime transportation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
