Korean-based VINSSEN, renowned for its expertise in electric and hydrogen hybrid propulsion systems, has accomplished a successful trial and delivery of a hydrogen fuel cell system. The trial project, a collaboration with key industry players, marks a significant milestone in exploring the potential of hydrogen as a viable marine fuel.
VINSSEN’s collaborative initiative involves prominent industry names, with Shell Singapore Pte. Ltd. as the project sponsor, Seatrium Limited serving as the project developer, Penguin International Limited responsible for owning and operating the vessel, and Air Liquide Singapore Private Limited acting as the hydrogen supplier. This strategic partnership aims to usher in a new era of maritime propulsion by testing and integrating hydrogen fuel cells.
The focal point of this ambitious project is the Penguin Tenacity, a 184-foot RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessel. This vessel serves as the testing ground for the feasibility of employing hydrogen fuel cells in maritime applications. VINSSEN’s hydrogen fuel cell system, delivered from Korea, is set to undergo installation on the Penguin Tenacity, marking the initiation of a pilot project that could reshape the landscape of marine propulsion.
Ahead of the trial, VINSSEN inked a contract with Shell in 2022 to supply the hydrogen fuel cell. Rigorous safety checks, including Hazard Identification (HAZID), Hazard and Operability (HAZOP), and Failure Mode and Effects, Criticality Analysis (FMECA), were conducted. Safety verification processes for the hydrogen fuel cell system installation were completed, along with the confirmation evaluation of project hazards and a thorough roadmap check.
The core components of the hydrogen fuel cell system provided by VINSSEN include the Fuel Cell Module (FCM), Integrated Converter Module (ICM), Lithium-ion Battery (LIB), and Transformer (TR) for auxiliary power generation on the vessel. The system is slated for operational use in Singapore for a year, starting in 2024. The project aims to convert operational data into real-time insights, verifying the stability and performance of the hydrogen fuel cell system.
Looking ahead, VINSSEN plans to dispatch a dedicated team to the Singapore shipyard for the installation, integration, and inspection of the hydrogen fuel cell system. The Fuel Cell System has already undergone drawing inspections and factory product tests and is poised to undergo classification inspection with Bureau Veritas (BV). A comprehensive inspection report (attestation) will be issued upon the successful completion of final commissioning and testing on board the Penguin Tenacity.
