EXMAR's 46,000-cubic-meter gas carrier, the Antwerpen, has completed its maiden commercial voyage from China to India, using ammonia as propulsion fuel during the journey. The vessel is the world's first ocean-going gas carrier capable of transporting ammonia and using it as fuel.
The dual-fuel system equipped on the Antwerpen performed in line with the vessel's design expectations and the Belgian group's aspirations. EXMAR assessed the technology as commercially viable and plans further adjustments and optimizations with project partners.
For its first cargo since entering service, the vessel departed from Qingjiang Terminal in Nanjing Jiangbei New Area on June 27, carrying 30,214 tons of liquid ammonia to India, with a cargo value of 132 million yuan ($19.5 million).
Before departure, inspectors checked the fuel supply, leak detection, and emergency inerting systems. Due to ammonia's toxicity and corrosiveness, and the port's lack of established regulatory templates for such vessel types, the loading process was monitored around the clock.
The Antwerpen was delivered on June 10 and is also capable of transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and using conventional fuel. Its propulsion system is built around WinGD's X52DF-A ammonia-fueled engine, developed through a project involving HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Engine Machinery Division, Lloyd's Register, and Nord Gas Solutions.
The vessel is the first of four ammonia dual-fuel medium-sized gas carriers ordered by EXMAR LPG France, with the second vessel named Arlon, the series named after Belgian cities. When operating on low-carbon ammonia, these ships can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional vessels.
EXMAR is a Belgian maritime group involved in gas transportation, floating infrastructure, and technical and crew services. EXMAR LPG France is its French shipping subsidiary. WinGD is a Swiss marine engine designer and licensor. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries is a South Korean shipbuilding company, and HD Hyundai Engine Machinery Division is its engine business unit.