[SHI Press release/ June 12, 2024] Samsung Heavy Industries(SHI) announced the successful completion of the Ammonia Pilot Test Facility(APTF), marking a significant step in its quest to secure core technologies for the ammonia value chain.

The completion ceremony, held on the 12th at Geoje Shipyard, was attended by officials from prominent ship owners including Cardiff of Greece, CMA CGM of France, and Evergreen of Taiwan, as well as representatives from classification companies worldwide and equipment companies such as MAN-ES and WinGD.

Construction of the APTF commenced in April of the previous year and was finalized within a year, occupying a substantial 1,300 square meter area within Samsung Heavy Industries' Geoje Shipyard.

The APTF's primary objective is to verify the development, performance, and reliability of crucial systems required for the application of ammonia propulsion. These include the fuel supply system, re-liquefaction system, and emission reduction system. Additionally, the facility will focus on the implementation of smart safety solutions such as real-time leak detection and warning systems, toxic neutralization devices, and surveillance systems utilizing innovative four-legged robots.

SHI's recent attainment of technical certification for the ammonia fuel cell propulsion ship VLAC (ammonia carrier) from the Norwegian classification society DNV underscores its commitment to eco-friendly fuel technologies. Looking ahead, SHI aims to position Geoje Shipyard as a central hub for research and development in environmentally sustainable fuels, including LNG, ammonia, and liquid hydrogen.