NoGAPS vessel project enters next phase
By on April 03, 2023
After extensive feasibility work throughout 2021-22, the second phase of the NoGAPS project is well underway. Led by the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping (MMMCZCS), a detailed plan for the design, operation and business case for the future MS NoGAPS vessel will be developed. The MS NoGAPS will be a handy-sized, ammonia-fueled gas carrier (22,000 m3 cargo capacity) optimised for commercial operation in the North Atlantic and northwestern European waters.
Crew accommodation, propulsion system considerations
A new report from the MMM Center explains progress-to-date on the second phase. Two crew accommodation configurations were assessed, with an aft location preferred to reduce exposure of the crew to ammonia fuel during an at-sea emergency. The NoGAPS team is also confident a “sufficient” safety design concept for the vessel is achievable with this configuration. In terms of the propulsion system, an ammonia-fueled two-stroke main engine was preferred over a hybrid system (ammonia-electric coupled with a four-stroke main engine) due to reduced fuel consumption, lower vessel emissions and a simplified safety concept.
Bunkering capabilities need further design work, as will the non-ammonia consuming power sources on-board (auxiliary engines and boilers). The next step is a rigorous HAZID process, with the project team eventually targeting AiP from DNV and a design package able to be submitted to shipyards for construction tenders. Construction and delivery of the MS NoGAPS is expected in 2024-25.
You can read the full technical report here.
Viridis Bulk Carriers awarded AiP
Bureau Veritas has awarded AiP for the ammonia-fueled, short-sea, bulk cargo vessel concept developed by Viridis and Kongsberg Maritime. Designed for a range capacity greater than 3,000 nautical miles, Viridis expects the first vessel orders to be placed this year, with deliveries starting in 2025. Viridis is also a member of the Ammonia Fuel Bunkering Network consortium, led by Yara and Azane Fuel Solutions. A network of bunkering terminals will be established across Scandinavia for refueling, with the first terminal to be ready in 2024.
The approval in principle from Bureau Veritas is a major milestone for Viridis and will enable us to move towards the newbuilding phase. With EU and IMO increasing their emission reduction targets, the Viridis vessels will comply with these and be able to provide charterers with superior greenhouse gas reductions in their logistical value chain.
Espen Nordstrøm, Cofounder & Board Member of Viridis Bulk Carriers in Bureau Veritas’ official press release, 20 Mar 2023