With a test dubbed a “world first”, engine manufacturer MAN Energy Solutions is pushing ahead with its hydrogen plans in collaboration with Mitsui.
The Japanese company Mitsui E&S, a licensee of MAN Energy Solutions, announced the successful testing of a MAN B&W two-stroke engine using hydrogen as fuel.
This is a “world first in the maritime industry”, MAN announced. The test took place at the Mitsui plant in Tamano on a two-stroke engine with a 50-bore and up to 100% load.
In cooperation with MAN, the Japanese company converted one of the four cylinders of a ME-GI engine (GI stands for Gas Injection) to run on hydrogen. The hydrogen was supplied to the engine from a hydrogen gas supply system developed by Mitsui in 2023.
“Stable operation was achieved at different loads and operating conditions, including successful hydrogen combustion up to 100% load,” the statement reads. Mitsui also confirmed a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of up to 95%, with the remainder coming from the pilot fuel used during the tests.
The Japanese company explained: “This is the world’s first successful hydrogen combustion test with a large two-stroke marine engine. The operation made possible with the provision of the hydrogen gas supply system has brought us one step closer to developing a zero-emission ship that uses hydrogen as fuel.”
“Very insightful work” for hydrogen propulsion systems
Gunnar Stiesch, Chief Technical Officer at MAN Energy Solutions, said: “This very interesting project is one of a number of hydrogen initiatives we are currently undertaking in both the two-stroke and four-stroke sectors.” He congratulated Mitsui on this “global first”, which has set new standards in decarbonization. Brian Østergaard Sørensen, Vice President and Head of Research & Development Two-Stroke, MAN Energy Solutions, called the research work “very informative” and said it provided a lot of food for thought. Thomas S. Hansen, Head of Promotion and Customer Support, added that they will now take the time to evaluate the results and ensure that they are ready when the market is ready for hydrogen. For Bjarne Foldager, Country Manager Denmark, the results are proof “of the advantages and flexibility of two-stroke engine technology”.
