Korea Shipbuilding and POSCO to Manufacture Liquefied Hydrogen Tanks for Ships

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Co., Ltd. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the 6th with POSCO, the Ship & Offshore Plant Research Institute, and Hylium Industries to jointly develop liquefied hydrogen fuel tanks for ships. According to the agreement, the four parties will develop liquefied hydrogen fuel tanks and supply systems for ships, as well as collaborate on developing stainless steel materials for liquefied hydrogen storage and transportation, manufacturing fuel tanks, and supporting the commercialization of liquefied hydrogen-powered ships.

First, a prototype liquefied hydrogen fuel tank for small vessels will be produced within this year. After testing, development will proceed to tanks for large vessels. Transporting hydrogen in liquid form is efficient for shipping because it reduces volume to 1/800 and is safe. However, liquefaction occurs at minus 253 degrees Celsius, about 100 degrees lower than liquefied natural gas, and it easily vaporizes with temperature changes, requiring advanced cryogenic technology.

Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering is responsible for the design of the liquefied hydrogen tanks and classification approval, while POSCO is in charge of steel material development. Hylium Industries will leverage its experience in manufacturing hydrogen liquefiers and onshore liquefied hydrogen tanks to produce shipboard tanks. The Research Institute will assess tank safety and assist in developing fuel supply technology.

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