HD Hyundai develops electric propulsion system for large ships
Hyung-Kyu Kim
Oct 27, 2023 (Gmt+09:00)
HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. have secured Approval in Principle (AIP) from the UK's Lloyd's Register for their groundbreaking low-carbon electric propulsion system (phase II) for super-large crude oil carriers, according to the companies' holding company HD Hyundai Co. on Friday.
The 30-megawatt (MW) electric propulsion system, which leverages medium voltage direct current (MVDC) and solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technologies, is designed for 300,000-ton crude carriers.
The system is anticipated to match the propulsion efficiency of larger conventional engines while achieving "net-zero" carbon emissions.
This innovation follows the two firms' accomplishment last February when they obtained a conceptual design certification from Lloyd's Register for the same system.
The system's energy efficiency has improved by 20% compared to existing models, and power quality has been boosted by about 40%.
Notably, this was achieved while reducing the system's overall weight by a fifth, according to a spokesperson from HD Hyundai.
The firm has emphasized its dedication to domestic innovation, noting that key equipment and technology were developed in-house.
This approach mirrors South Korea's drive for technological self-reliance in pivotal industries.
Looking forward, HD Hyundai is targeting 2027 for a land-based demonstration of its propulsion system and is planning a full-scale commercial rollout by 2028.