Methanol Institute: Methanol fuel innovations and expansions (Week 28, 8 to 14 July 2024)
- Published
by Admin
The Methanol Institute, provides an exclusive weekly commentary on developments related to the adoption of methanol as a bunker fuel, including significant related events recorded during the week, for the readers of bunkering publication Manifold Times:
Technology around the use of methanol as a marine fuel has continued to move forward, with the latest developments including an additive which removes the need for pilot fuel, further saving carbon emissions. Elsewhere, bunker networks, fuel transport and cargo capacity using cleaner methanol has continued to expand.
Methanol marine fuel related developments for Week 28 of 2024:
Terntank orders Fifth Eco-Friendly Tanker with Methanol and Wind Propulsion
Date: July 8, 2024
Key Points:
Terntank has placed an order for a fifth vessel featuring wind-assisted propulsion and methanol fuel capabilities from China Merchants Jinling Shipyard. Scheduled for delivery between March 2025 and July 2027, the 15,000 DWT chemical and product tanker aims to enhance environmental performance. The company emphasized the benefits of these technologies, including reduced emissions and expanded shore power usage, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable shipping practices.
Fratelli Cosulich Orders Two New Bunker Vessels with Methanol and Biofuel Capabilities
Date: July 8, 2024
Key Points:
Fratelli Cosulich has ordered two 7,999 DWT bunker delivery vessels from Taizhou Maple Leaf Shipbuilding, capable of handling methanol, biofuel, and fuel oil. The first ship is expected in early 2026. This move reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. Methanol, known for its ability to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is a focal point of this initiative, supporting the transition to cleaner marine fuels.
X-Press Feeders Launches Methanol-Powered Feeder Ships in Rotterdam
Date: July 10, 2024
Key Points:
X-Press Feeders has introduced its first methanol-fueled ship, Eco-Maestro, in Rotterdam, launching Europe’s first scheduled feeder network powered by green methanol. The network, comprising 14 ships, will operate routes in Northern Europe with methanol bunkering exclusively in Rotterdam. This initiative aims to support sustainable shipping and help companies achieve environmental goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
WinGD Completes Successful Tests on New Short-Stroke Methanol-Compatible Engine
Date: July 11, 2024
Key Points:
WinGD has successfully completed testing of its new X52-S2.0 short-stroke engine at the Yuchai Marine Power Co facility. This engine, now type-approved, is available in diesel, LNG, and methanol configurations, with an ammonia option in development. It features a compact design and high fuel efficiency, making it suitable for smaller vessels. The engine’s methanol compatibility underscores its role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainable maritime practices.
Infineum Explores Methanol Fuels for Heavy-Duty and Marine Engines with Innovative Additives
Date: July 11, 2024
Key Points:
Paul Cooper and Joanna Hughes of Gane Energy spoke to Infineum Insight to discuss the advantages of methanol as fuel for heavy-duty and marine engines and how fuel additives can help to overcome some of the challenges.
One of the issues associated with methanol – in common with many alternative fuels in marine applications – has been the need to use a pilot fuel to ignite it in the engine. Gane Energy has developed performance additives to methanol fuel, overcoming challenges like lubricity and corrosion. Their approach also eliminates the need for a diesel pilot fuel by converting methanol to dimethyl ether (DME) for ignition.
As the use of methanol grows in various transportation applications, the use of high quality fuel additives will be vital to ensure hardware protection, according to Infineum.
Photo credit: Methanol Institute
Published: 19 July, 2024
