Tugboat SAKIGAKE
The NYK Group in Japan has launched a project to convert their LNG-powered tugboat, named “SAKIGAKE,” to run on ammonia as its fuel source.
The project to create an ammonia-fuelled tugboat was initially announced in 2020 when NYK, IHI Motor Co., and Nippon Kaiji Kyokai entered into an R&D agreement to develop an ammonia-powered tugboat.
The chosen vessel for this conversion is the “SAKIGAKE,” a 272-ton tugboat measuring 122 feet in length, which has been operational in Tokyo Bay for several years. Notably, the “SAKIGAKE” was the first vessel in Japan to undergo a conversion to use LNG. It completed its final LNG bunkering operation in July 2023 before being taken out of the water to commence the conversion process.
The tugboat has now arrived at the Oppama facility of Keihin Dock Co. for the conversion process, which will entail modifying the engine room, removing all LNG-related equipment, and installing ammonia tanks, engines, and associated machinery.
The new ammonia-powered engine has undergone testing at IHI Power Systems’ Ota Plant and is reported to produce virtually zero emissions, specifically from partially burned ammonia and nitrous oxide.
The converted tugboat is on track for delivery in June 2024. Once the conversion is complete, it will remain under the operation of Shin-Nihon Kaiyosha and resume its role in assisting ships at the Port of Yokohama. This operational phase will serve as an important evaluation of the tug’s efficiency and operational safety.
The opinions expressed herein are the author’s and not necessarily those of News2Sea.
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