HD Hyundai Unveils Ammonia-Fueled Engine with High-Pressure Injection Technology

Hyundai Heavy Industries has made a significant breakthrough in the development of ammonia-fueled engines by utilizing a unique high-pressure injection method. The South Korean shipbuilder has achieved certification during model testing and is now ready to commercialize the engine. This engine features a newly developed “high-pressure direct injection method” that compresses air in the engine combustion chamber and burns it by injecting ammonia with high pressure. Hyundai claims this is the first ammonia engine in the world to successfully apply this method, which differs from the traditional low-pressure premixed combustion method.

To optimize fuel spraying and maximize burn rate, Hyundai Heavy Industries utilized a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to minimize nitrogen oxide and unburned ammonia. Additionally, an Integrated Scrubber developed by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering has been implemented to drastically reduce ammonia concentrations. The development of this ammonia engine is seen as a significant step towards expanding the eco-friendly dual-fuel engine lineup and leading the future eco-friendly ship market.

Model-based testing of the engine was completed on October 7 at Hyundai’s Engine Technology Center in Ulsan, South Korea, with representatives from seven classification societies in attendance. The engine has received model-based class approval from these major classification societies, and Hyundai Heavy Industries is preparing to commercialize the HiMSEN ammonia engine. The company plans to market the engine for use in ammonia carriers, marine power generation, propulsion, and even land-based power generation.

The progress made by Hyundai Heavy Industries in developing ammonia-fueled engines aligns with a broader trend in the industry towards environmentally friendly fuels. Other companies, such as Japan’s NYK, Singapore’s Fortescue, and US-based Amogy, are also making advancements in ammonia-fueled technology. Major engine manufacturers like MAN and Wartsila are also making strides in developing their versions of ammonia-fueled engines, with deployment expected to begin by 2026.

Source