Windcat Workboats, a part of Compagnie Maritime Belge (CMB), has achieved a major milestone with the world’s first dual-fuel hydrogen- and diesel-powered crew transfer vessel (CTV). The Hydrocat 48, a 25-meter vessel based on the Windcat MK 3.5 design, is equipped with cutting-edge technology that significantly reduces fuel usage and associated emissions. Certified by Lloyd’s Register and the U.K. Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the vessel successfully completed bunkering and sea trials in May. Hydrogen engines in the maritime industry to this level can be a game-changer for our impact on the environment.
The Hydrocat 48 features two 12-cylinder IMO Tier III-certified MAN D2862 LE448 diesel engines and a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) exhaust gas after-treatment system. MAN Engines and CMB’s cleantech arm, CMB.TECH, have collaborated to enable dual fuel operation by incorporating a hydrogen injection system. This technology allows existing diesel engines to be used without requiring any fundamental changes, ensuring simplicity in maintenance, repairs, and the ability to switch back to traditional fuel seamlessly. The Hydrocat 48 serves as a robust and reliable solution for the offshore wind industry, offering flexibility even when hydrogen is not readily available.
Werner Kübler, Head of Development at MAN Engines, explained the technology behind the dual-fuel system. By introducing hydrogen into the charge air via an adapter, the conventional diesel engine initiates combustion according to the diesel principle. Approximately 5% of diesel fuel is injected to start the combustion process, with optimized common rail injection parameters for dual fuel operation. This approach ensures fuel efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions by an average of approximately 50%, and even up to 80% at peak values.
Willem Van Der Wel, Managing Director of Windcat Workboats, emphasized the significance of the Hydrocat 48 as a cost-effective solution for emissions reduction in service vessels. The success of this vessel paves the way for future dual-fuel and fully hydrogen-powered CTVs, driving further development in technology, regulation, and the supply chain. It serves as a stepping stone to a sustainable future for the industry.
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CMB.TECH and Windcat Workboats are working together to optimize engine capacities and increase hydrogen usage. Their long-term plan includes developing the technology and infrastructure for a mono-fuel option using an internal combustion engine (ICE). While the hydrogen supply chain is still growing and expanding accessibility, CMB.TECH and Windcat have devised a hydrogen bunkering solution using a 40-foot, 500-bar trailer for remote refueling. This solution serves multiple applications, including the Hydrocat 48 CTV.
Windcat, in collaboration with joint venture partners TSM and FRS, has three more vessels under construction that can be delivered with the hydrogen technology onboard. Furthermore, they are actively developing additional CTV designs utilizing this innovative technology.
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The world is moving towards cleaner and more sustainable forms of energy, and hydrogen-powered engines are at the forefront of this movement. The collaboration between CMB.TECH and Windcat Workboats to develop dual-fuel hydrogen engines for their vessels is a positive step towards reducing carbon emissions in the maritime industry. This innovative technology not only offers improved performance but also provides a cleaner and safer alternative to traditional gasoline engines.
However, there are still challenges that need to be overcome, such as the availability and accessibility of hydrogen fuel. As we continue to research and develop solutions to these challenges, it is important to maintain consented efforts toward using cleaner sources of energy. Hydrogen fuel cells have the potential to offer greater range and lower emission levels compared to battery-operated vehicles. Therefore, adding hydrogen combustion engines to our transportation strategy could be key to achieving a clean economy.
As the marine industry embraces the potential of hydrogen applications, the growth of the hydrogen supply chain remains crucial. The industry anticipates significant developments in the accessibility of hydrogen in the coming years. In the interim, the Hydrocat 48 and its pioneering technology set the stage for a greener future, promoting sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of crew transfer vessels.
In conclusion, the advantages and benefits of hydrogen-powered engines are becoming increasingly popular. With continued research and innovation, we may soon see the widespread adoption of this unique technology across various industries. As demand for cleaner and more effective solutions continues to grow, it is important that we work together to find new ways to reduce carbon emissions and achieve a better future for our planet.
