ABS approves KHI’s LNG fuel gas system

Classification society ABS has granted approval in principle (AIP) to Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) for its LPG as fuel system design.

A dual-fuel engine capable of using both marine diesel oil and LPG as fuel, KHI claims the system simultaneously reduces fuel consumption and enables the engine to meet NOx Tier 3 regulations.

“Using LPG as a fuel can lower emissions to air compared to conventional fuels, both in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants,” said Patrick Ryan, ABS senior vice president, global engineering and technology.

KHI’s design is for an electronically controlled LPG injection marine diesel engine (ME-LGIP), the first order placed for an engine of this type in Japan.

“LNG as fuel is attracting widespread attention as an environmentally friendly option, but LPG as fuel has advantages over LNG, including potentially reduced initial investment and simpler handling onboard.  As a result, we believe LPG as fuel will prove increasingly attractive to the market in the future,” said Hideaki Naoi, general manager, KHI.