Hanwha Ocean and Baker Hughes: Pioneering Carbon-Free Shipping with Ammonia Gas Turbines

The recent partnership between South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Power Systems, and energy technology firm Baker Hughes marks a pivotal moment in the maritime industry’s quest for carbon-free operations. This collaboration aims to develop a new small-size ammonia gas turbine, a groundbreaking innovation expected to transform ship propulsion by enabling 100% ammonia combustion and dual fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce carbon emissions in the maritime sector, one of the most polluting industries globally. The technology’s versatility, suitable for marine, onshore, offshore, electric generation, and mechanical drive applications, positions it as a potential game-changer for various industries.

Introduction to the Partnership

The collaboration between Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Power Systems, and Baker Hughes represents a significant stride towards carbon-free shipping. Hanwha Ocean, a leading South Korean shipbuilder, and Hanwha Power Systems, a subsidiary of Hanwha Group, have partnered with Baker Hughes, a global energy technology company, to develop a new small-size ammonia gas turbine. This innovative partnership is driven by the shared goal of reducing the carbon footprint of the maritime industry. Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha Power Systems bring their expertise in shipbuilding and power systems, respectively, while Baker Hughes contributes its extensive experience in energy technology and turbine development. Together, they aim to create a 100% ammonia combustion dual fuel turbine that can operate with a blend of natural gas and ammonia, a low-carbon fuel. The primary objectives of this partnership include designing and developing a compact and efficient ammonia gas turbine, which can be integrated into various ship types to enhance their environmental performance. The project is poised to revolutionize ship propulsion by offering a cleaner and more sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based systems. The successful implementation of this ammonia gas turbine could pave the way for a more sustainable future for the maritime industry, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines.

Technological Innovations

The partnership between Hanwha Power Systems, Hanwha Ocean, and Baker Hughes is set to revolutionize ship propulsion with the development of a new ammonia gas turbine. This innovative turbine is designed to operate on 100% ammonia combustion, a significant step towards achieving carbon-free shipping. The development process began with a Joint Development and Collaboration Agreement (JDCA) signed in Florence, Italy, on February 3, 2025 Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines. This agreement combines Baker Hughes’ small-size gas turbine technology with Hanwha’s ammonia combustion system, creating a dual-fuel turbine capable of operating with both natural gas and ammonia. The turbine’s unique capabilities include 100% ammonia combustion, which is expected to be a game-changing technology for large ships, enabling a completely carbon-free propulsion system Hanwha to partner Baker Hughes to develop ammonia gas turbines. This capability is particularly significant for large ships, as it allows for a completely carbon-free propulsion system, which is a major step towards reducing the industry’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the turbine supports dual-fuel operation, allowing it to use a blend of natural gas and ammonia, further enhancing its versatility and efficiency. The development process has been marked by several key milestones, including successful testing of a proof-of-concept combustor with 100% ammonia as the fuel gas Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines. Baker Hughes completed its initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024, and Hanwha Power Systems signed a memorandum of understanding with a large LNG shipping company in Europe to convert its propulsion system to an ammonia gas turbine-based system in 2024 Hanwha Ocean and power associate team with Baker Hughes on ammonia gas turbine technology. The technical specifications of the new turbine are designed to be highly efficient and reliable. The turbine is expected to operate within a power range of approximately 16MW, making it suitable for various applications, including marine, onshore, and industrial settings Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines. The performance metrics of the turbine are expected to be exceptional, with high efficiency and low emissions, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable energy solutions. The turbine’s design incorporates advanced combustion technologies that ensure stable and efficient operation, even under varying load conditions. The partnership aims to complete a full engine test by the end of 2025, which will validate the turbine’s performance and pave the way for its commercialization. The successful development and deployment of this ammonia gas turbine represent a significant milestone in the transition towards carbon-free shipping. It demonstrates the collaborative efforts of leading companies in the energy sector to address the challenges posed by climate change and promote sustainable practices. The turbine’s capabilities and technical specifications make it a promising solution for achieving carbon-free ship propulsion, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for the maritime industry.

Applications and Benefits

South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean and Hanwha Power Systems have formed a partnership with energy technology firm Baker Hughes to design and develop a new small-size ammonia gas turbine, with an aim to achieve carbon-free ship operations. The partnership was formalized through a joint development and collaboration agreement (JDCA) which will focus on producing a small-size turbine for ammonia applications, leveraging Baker Hughes’ gas turbine technology and Hanwha’s ammonia combustion system. As explained, the gas turbine will be capable of 100% ammonia combustion and dual fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend. It is expected to be a “game-changing technology” for large ship owners, enabling a completely carbon-free mode of propulsion. According to Baker Hughes, the new turbine will be suitable for marine applications, onshore and offshore applications, as well as electric generation and mechanical drive. The South Korean shipbuilder has already tested a proof-of-concept of the combustor, with 100% ammonia as the fuel gas, and Baker Hughes completed its initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024. The two companies target to complete the full engine test with ammonia by the end of 2027, after which the turbine with approximately 16 MW power range will be commercially available for orders. Under the agreement, Hanwha Ocean will adopt the new solution as a propulsion system for its future vessels.

Marine Applications

The ammonia gas turbine is particularly well-suited for marine applications, offering a completely carbon-free mode of propulsion. The turbine’s capability to operate on 100% ammonia combustion and its dual fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend makes it an ideal solution for large ships. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the maritime industry by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and complying with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. Hanwha Ocean has already received approval in principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to apply ammonia gas turbines to LNG carriers, marking a significant step towards carbon-free shipping. The shipbuilder has also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Greek LNG shipping services provider GasLog to convert the shipowner’s propulsion system to an ammonia gas turbine-based system. These developments indicate a growing interest in ammonia as a low-carbon fuel for marine applications.

Onshore and Offshore Applications

In the onshore and offshore sectors, the ammonia gas turbine offers a clean and efficient alternative to traditional combustion methods. The dual fuel capability allows for flexible operation, switching between natural gas and ammonia as needed. This flexibility can help utilities and energy providers meet their emission reduction targets while ensuring reliable power supply. The turbine’s high efficiency and low emissions make it an attractive option for both new power plants and retrofits of existing facilities. Baker Hughes’ initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024 demonstrate the technology’s potential in these applications, with the full engine test expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Electric Generation

For electric generation, the ammonia gas turbine provides a sustainable and efficient solution. The turbine’s ability to operate on 100% ammonia combustion ensures a clean energy source with minimal environmental impact. This technology can be integrated into existing power generation systems, offering a pathway to decarbonize the electricity sector. The high efficiency of the ammonia gas turbine can also contribute to cost savings for energy providers by reducing fuel consumption and operational costs. The turbine’s versatility makes it a valuable asset for utilities looking to transition to low-carbon energy sources.

Mechanical Drive

In mechanical drive applications, the ammonia gas turbine offers a reliable and efficient power source. The turbine’s dual fuel capability allows for flexible operation, making it suitable for various industrial processes. The high efficiency and low emissions of the ammonia gas turbine make it an attractive option for industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. The technology’s potential to operate on 100% ammonia combustion further enhances its appeal, as it provides a clean and sustainable power source for mechanical drive applications.

Environmental Benefits

The ammonia gas turbine offers significant environmental benefits, including potential reductions in carbon emissions. The technology’s capability to operate on 100% ammonia combustion and its dual fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend make it a low-carbon solution. This can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. The turbine’s high efficiency also reduces fuel consumption, further minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, the use of ammonia as a fuel can help mitigate the release of nitrogen oxides (NOx), a major contributor to smog and acid rain.

Economic Advantages

The ammonia gas turbine brings numerous economic advantages to different industries. The turbine’s high efficiency can lead to significant cost savings by reducing fuel consumption and operational costs. This can result in lower energy bills for consumers and increased profitability for energy providers. The technology’s potential to operate on 100% ammonia combustion also offers a pathway to decarbonize the energy sector, which can attract investment and support from governments and regulatory bodies. The turbine’s versatility makes it an attractive option for industries looking to transition to low-carbon energy sources, as it can be integrated into existing systems and processes.

Operational Efficiencies

The ammonia gas turbine offers operational efficiencies that can enhance the performance of various systems. The turbine’s dual fuel capability allows for flexible operation, enabling utilities and energy providers to optimize their power generation based on demand and fuel availability. This flexibility can help ensure reliable power supply while minimizing operational costs. The high efficiency of the ammonia gas turbine can also contribute to reduced maintenance requirements, as the turbine operates more efficiently and with fewer breakdowns. This can result in longer equipment lifespan and lower overall operating costs.

Development Milestones

The development of the ammonia gas turbine project by Hanwha Ocean and Baker Hughes marks a significant milestone in the quest for carbon-free shipping. This chapter outlines the key development milestones achieved by the partnership, detailing the proof-of-concept testing conducted by Hanwha Ocean, the initial turbine feasibility studies completed by Baker Hughes, and the timeline for full engine testing with ammonia. The chapter also discusses the expected outcomes and the significance of these milestones in the overall project timeline.

Proof-of-Concept Testing by Hanwha Ocean

Hanwha Ocean successfully conducted proof-of-concept testing for the ammonia combustion system in 2024. This testing involved running the combustor with 100% ammonia as the fuel gas, demonstrating the feasibility of using ammonia as a primary fuel source for the turbine. The results of these tests were crucial in validating the technology’s potential for 100% ammonia combustion and dual-fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend. This milestone is significant as it provided the initial validation needed to proceed with further development and feasibility studies Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines.

Initial Turbine Feasibility Studies by Baker Hughes

Baker Hughes completed its initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024. These studies focused on integrating Baker Hughes’ small-size gas turbine technology with Hanwha’s ammonia combustion system. The feasibility studies assessed the technical viability, performance metrics, and potential applications of the new turbine. The results of these studies were instrumental in refining the design specifications and identifying areas for further optimization. This milestone is crucial as it laid the groundwork for the full-scale development of the ammonia gas turbine Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines.

Timeline for Full Engine Testing with Ammonia

The timeline for full engine testing with ammonia is set to begin in 2026. This testing phase will involve comprehensive performance evaluations, durability assessments, and safety evaluations of the new turbine. The primary objective of these tests is to validate the turbine’s capabilities in real-world conditions and to ensure its readiness for commercial deployment. The full engine testing phase is a critical step in ensuring that the turbine meets the required performance standards and regulatory compliance Baker Hughes, Hanwha to develop 16MW ammonia turbines for shipping and power.

Expected Outcomes and Significance

The expected outcomes of these milestones are significant for the overall project timeline and the broader goal of achieving carbon-free shipping. The proof-of-concept testing and feasibility studies have validated the technology’s potential, while the full engine testing will provide the final validation needed for commercial deployment. The successful completion of these milestones will pave the way for the integration of the ammonia gas turbine into ship propulsion systems, contributing to the decarbonization of the maritime industry. The significance of these milestones lies in their role in accelerating the development and deployment of a game-changing technology that can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of shipping operations Hanwha to partner Baker Hughes to develop ammonia gas turbines.

Industry Collaboration

The significance of the partnership between Hanwha and Baker Hughes in the context of global energy collaboration cannot be overstated. This collaboration is not just a business venture but a strategic move aimed at addressing critical environmental challenges and achieving significant emissions reductions. The joint development and collaboration agreement (JDCA) signed by Hanwha Power Systems, Hanwha Ocean, and Baker Hughes marks a pivotal step towards the decarbonization of the shipping industry. The agreement focuses on creating a new small-size ammonia gas turbine that leverages Baker Hughes’ small-size gas turbine technology and Hanwha’s ammonia combustion system. This innovative turbine is designed to operate on 100% ammonia combustion, making it a revolutionary solution for achieving carbon-free propulsion in large ships. Additionally, the turbine can operate on a dual-fuel system, combining natural gas and ammonia, further enhancing its versatility and efficiency. Lloyds List GlobeNewswire

The regulatory approvals and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) signed by the companies further underscore their commitment to advancing this technology. Hanwha Power Systems and Hanwha Ocean have obtained approval in principle from the American Bureau of Shipping to apply ammonia gas turbines to liquefied natural gas carriers. This approval is a significant milestone, as it paves the way for the widespread adoption of ammonia gas turbines in the shipping industry. Additionally, Hanwha Power Systems signed a memorandum of understanding with a large LNG shipping company in Europe to convert its propulsion system to an ammonia gas turbine-based system. This MoU highlights the practical applications and the industry’s readiness to embrace this innovative technology. TradeWinds News

The partnership between Hanwha and Baker Hughes is more than just a technological advancement; it is a testament to global collaboration in addressing environmental sustainability. By combining their expertise, these companies are not only developing a groundbreaking technology but also setting a new standard for industry cooperation. The successful testing of a proof-of-concept combustor by Hanwha, which operated on 100% ammonia as the fuel gas, and Baker Hughes’ completion of initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024, further validate the feasibility and potential of this technology. Hydrocarbon Engineering

Global Impact

The collaboration between Hanwha Ocean and Baker Hughes marks a significant milestone in the maritime industry’s transition towards carbon-free propulsion. The partnership aims to develop a new small-size ammonia gas turbine, leveraging Baker Hughes’ gas turbine technology and Hanwha’s ammonia combustion system. This innovative turbine is designed to achieve 100% ammonia combustion and dual-fuel operation with a natural gas and ammonia blend, promising a completely carbon-free mode of propulsion for large ships. This technology is expected to revolutionize the maritime industry, making it a game-changer for shipowners seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. The South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean has already conducted a proof-of-concept test of the combustor using 100% ammonia as the fuel gas, while Baker Hughes completed its initial turbine feasibility studies in 2024. The companies target to complete the full engine test with ammonia by the end of 2027, after which the turbine with an approximate 16 MW power range will be commercially available for orders. Under the agreement, Hanwha Ocean will adopt this new solution as the propulsion system for its future vessels. In September 2023, Hanwha Ocean received approval in principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to apply ammonia gas turbines to LNG carriers. Additionally, in September 2024, Hanwha Power Systems signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Greek LNG shipping services provider GasLog to convert the shipowner’s propulsion system to an ammonia gas turbine-based system. This collaboration underscores the industry’s commitment to decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors and highlights the potential for further innovations in the energy sector. The global impact of this partnership is profound, as it accelerates the transition to low-carbon fuel propulsion in the maritime industry. The ammonia gas turbine technology not only targets carbon-free shipping but also has applications beyond the maritime sector, including onshore and offshore applications, electric generation, and mechanical drive. The broader implications include reduced emissions, enhanced energy efficiency, and the potential for new business models and market opportunities. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, technologies like the ammonia gas turbine represent a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. The collaboration between Hanwha Ocean and Baker Hughes is not just a technological advancement but a strategic move that positions the maritime industry at the forefront of the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the collaboration between Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Power Systems, and Baker Hughes represents a significant stride toward achieving carbon-free shipping. The development of the ammonia gas turbine is not only a technological marvel but also a crucial step in mitigating the environmental impact of the maritime industry. As the project progresses and regulatory approvals are secured, the potential for widespread adoption of this technology becomes increasingly promising. The future holds great expectations for the ammonia gas turbine, with its ability to revolutionize propulsion systems across multiple sectors and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Sources

• Baker Hughes – Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines
• H2 View – Baker Hughes, Hanwha to develop 16MW ammonia turbines for shipping and power
• Hydrocarbon Engineering – Hanwha to supply ammonia gas turbines
• Lloyds List – Hanwha to partner Baker Hughes to develop ammonia gas turbines
• GlobeNewswire – Baker Hughes and Hanwha Announce Partnership to Develop Small-Size Ammonia Turbines
• Offshore Energy – Hanwha Ocean unveils world’s 1st carbon emission-free LNG carrier
• Offshore Energy – Hanwha Power Systems and GasLog shake hands on ammonia gas turbine retrofit project
• TradeWinds News – Hanwha Ocean and power associate team with Baker Hughes on ammonia gas turbine technology