Japanese trio form hydrogen-fuelled marine engine consortium
Members will focus on developing hydrogen-based technology for low-speed two-stroke as well as medium- and high-speed four-stroke engines by 2025.
The consortium, made up of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Yanmar Power Technology and Japan Engine Corporation, said its members would pursue joint development of hydrogen-fuelled marine engines for oceangoing and coastal vessels.
Each member of the consortium has a specialist area to cover. Kawasaki Heavy Industries will develop medium-speed four-stroke engines, Yanmar Power Technology will focus on medium- and high-speed four-stroke engines, and Japan Engine Corporation will work to develop low-speed two-stroke engines.
The three companies will combine efforts to create a hydrogen fuel storage and supply system as part of an integrated hydrogen fuel system design.
The group said development of technologies in the hydrogen value chain would come through co-operation on common fundamental technologies "such as basic experiments and analysis on hydrogen combustion, materials, sealing techniques and classification".
"By developing advanced hydrogen marine engine technologies based on the distinctive engines and quickly launching in the market, the consortium will contribute to the Japanese shipbuilding industry," a statement from the newly formed consortium said.
"Furthermore, the companies aim to revitalise the Japanese maritime industry and realise a sustainable society by promoting the uptake of hydrogen-fuelled engine technology for marine vessels."
The three companies will combine efforts to create a hydrogen fuel storage and supply system as part of an integrated hydrogen fuel system design (Image of liquid hydrogen carrier concept vessel; source: Kawasaki Heavy Industries)
