SHI: “The key to this certified technology is to use the power generated through liquid hydrogen and polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells as a ship’s propulsion energy source” (source: DNV)
South Korean shipbuilder Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) has received approval in principle (AiP) for the technology based on combining liquefied hydrogen and polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) from Norwegian classification society DNV
SHI said it is the first shipbuilder in the maritime sector to develop fuel-cell technology for ships.
“The key to this certified technology is to use the power generated through liquid hydrogen and PEMFC as a ship’s propulsion energy source,” a statement from Samsung Heavy Industries said.
The company said it acquired system development and classification certification through a joint research project with South Korean hydrogen-related companies.
Bumhan Fuel Cell and Jungwoo E&E worked with SHI on the development of the hydrogen fuel cell and liquid hydrogen storage tank for ships, respectively. SHI said a third company, S&Sys, was in charge of the hybrid power management system that controls the hydrogen fuel cell and battery.
In working to commercialise the hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system, Samsung Heavy Industries established an initiative with Pusan ​​National University’s Hydrogen Ship Technology Center to undertake research and development, production and certification processes with DNV and South Korean companies.
“Samsung Heavy Industries is taking the lead in opening up the possibility of hydrogen power generation systems for ships using various fuel cells such as SOFC and PEMFC,” said SHI head global new business Kim Jin-mo, noting the company intends to further strengthen the industry-academy-class co-operation initiative it has developed.
