Classification for hydrogen-fuelled tug

Classification for hydrogen-fuelled tug

ClassNK has added Japan’s first hydrogen-fuelled tug Ten-Oh to its register, built by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. This vessel was developed and built under the ‘Nippon Foundation Zero Emission Ships Project’, a grant program by The Nippon Foundation aimed at developing ships with zero CO2 emissions. Based on discussions among the parties involved during the planning stage of the vessel, ClassNK reviewed the safety requirements and countermeasures for hydrogen-fuelled ships by applying Part GF of its ‘Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships’ etc. These reviews focused on issues such as preventing explosions caused by the high ignitability of hydrogen and mitigating the potential impacts of hydrogen fuel leakage on crew members and the environment.

ClassNK says that it will continuously support the safe operation of the vessel through surveys in service, and not only that, support industry’s effort toward decarbonisation through using the knowledge and experience gained from the surveys for keeping its guidelines up to date and contributing to establishment of the appropriate international standard.