Hydrogen as marine fuel

Why wait for low flashpoint fuels regulations to be fully developed when you can have zero emissions today by choosing hydrogen (H2) as marine fuel.

Marine Service Noord is future oriented. We are at the forefront of the development of alternative maritime fuel systems and technologies. Back in 2009, we were already involved in the development and construction of the NEMO H2 tour boat for shipping company Lovers in Amsterdam. Meanwhile, we have also participated in the First ELement MARine (FELMAR) hydrogen research project together with Nedstack, Marin, FPS, Damen, HSE and LRoS. And just recently, we built our own hydrogen powered rescue boat in collaboration with a group of students from Noorderpoort Energy & Maritime.

Benefits of hydrogen

Zero emissions
Low noise and low vibration when using fuel cells instead of generator sets

Disadvantages of hydrogen

Low energy density
Currently no bunkering infrastructure
High fuel price compared to other fuels

We at MSN believe hydrogen (H2) to be one of the most promising future marine fuels for ships operating on relatively low power requirements in combination with relative short endurance (<1000kW, <500nm). For higher requirements, hydrogen will probably not be feasible, storing the fuel as ammonia would probably be a more cost-effective option.

We design and build Hydrogen (H2) fuel systems for the use of hydrogen fuel cells in the short sea and inland shipping sectors. We will design and build systems to meet your vessel’s functional requirements and your specific wishes. By following the risk-based design (RBD) and approval process there is no need to wait for the low flashpoint fuels regulations to be fully developed and in place.

We keep you involved at every stage of the project, from a blank piece of paper to the turnkey delivery. There’s no need for you to choose between various subcontractors; we have everything you need to make your project a success.

EMISSION FREE

Hydrogen is a sustainable and inexhaustible energy source. It is also the cleanest fuel there is. A ship with an Hydrogen (H2) fuel system complies with (inter) national conditions and regulations to reduce emissions and contributes to a cleaner environment for next generations. Using hydrogen as a maritime fuel will make your system completely emission-free (assuming the hydrogen is produced sustainably). Hydrogen has excellent chemical and physical properties, making it highly suitable as an emission-free source of propulsion.

DESIGN POSSIBILITIES

We will design a fully custom built system based on a personal meeting, your vessel’s sailing profile, the general layout of your ship and the technical specifications of the fuel cells. We take into account both technical aspects and the total cost of ownership (TCO). Depending on your requirements, you can choose between cryogenic hydrogen storage or pressurized storage.

With pressurized storage, the hydrogen is stored in 10 to 45 ft containers at a pressure of 350 to 500 bar. These are set up on deck and are easy to exchange.

When you opt for cryogenic storage, the hydrogen is stored at a temperature of -250°C and bunkered by means of a bunkering station

SERVICE, INSTRUCTION AND AFTER SALES

Even after the completion of your project, we remain a highly committed partner. Service is our top priority. Do you have technical questions, need us to instruction your crew or have any other concerns? We are happy to be of service, wherever in the world your ship may be.

Would you like to know more about the possibilities of hydrogen fuel cell solutions for your new build or project? We are happy to inform you on the available options. Contact us to set up an exploratory meeting, or complete the contact form below to receive our free brochure on H2 fuel systems.