Alfa Laval Korea Ltd. has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hanwha Ocean Ecotech, setting the stage for a deeper collaboration in developing safe and reliable ammonia fuel systems for dual-fuel vessels. This partnership underscores both companies’ dedication to advancing the maritime industry’s shift towards low-carbon and alternative fuel technologies.
The MoU signifies a strategic alliance that combines Alfa Laval’s extensive technical expertise in ammonia fuel systems with Hanwha Ocean Ecotech’s prowess in marine technology. Together, they aim to capture early market opportunities and establish a competitive edge in the burgeoning field of alternative marine fuels.
The collaboration encompasses joint business development and project opportunities, with a clear ambition to deliver a pilot installation that will pave the way for future endeavors. Alfa Laval will bring its proven capabilities in ammonia fuel and mitigation technologies, including the ammonia fuel supply system and the Ammonia Release Mitigation System (ARMS). Hanwha Ocean Ecotech will contribute its extensive experience in system engineering and integration, ensuring that the partnership enhances both productivity and safety on board.
“This MoU is more than just technical cooperation – it represents a strategic partnership to secure leadership in Korea and Asia’s sustainable shipbuilding market. By combining our strengths, we aim to accelerate the decarbonization of global shipping with safe and reliable ammonia fuel solutions,” says Young-Gu Choi, Managing Director of Alfa Laval Korea.
Chang-Keun Lee, CEO of Hanwha Ocean Ecotech, added, “Partnering with Alfa Laval is a significant opportunity to deliver safer and more efficient ammonia fuel systems to our customers. Through pilot projects and subsequent commercial projects, we will maximize synergies and bring greater value to the maritime industry.”
This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving innovation. It reflects a shared ambition to advance ammonia fuel systems for dual-fuel vessels, leveraging proven technologies, engineering expertise, and close industry collaboration.
The signing of the MoU took place at Alfa Laval’s booth during Kormarine 2025, highlighting the event’s significance in the maritime industry. Alfa Laval is also actively engaged in several other key collaborations focused on ammonia as a marine fuel. A notable example is its long-standing research and development partnership with WinGD, which has successfully tested the FCM Ammonia, Ammonia Release Mitigation System (ARMS), and Fuel Valve Trains, laying a solid foundation for its commercial rollout.
Another significant collaboration involves South Korea’s shipbuilder K Shipbuilding (KSB), Alfa Laval, WinGD, and the classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). In this project, Alfa Laval contributed to the design of the entire fuel system, including the ammonia fuel supply system, fuel valves train, and ARMS. Additionally, Alfa Laval added an Aalborg ammonia dual-fuel boiler system to the project scope. These initiatives demonstrate Alfa Laval’s broad commitment to accelerating the safe adoption of ammonia through its own innovations and industry collaborations.
As the maritime industry continues to navigate the complexities of decarbonization, partnerships like this one between Alfa Laval and Hanwha Ocean Ecotech will be crucial in driving forward the development and deployment of sustainable fuel solutions. The collaboration not only strengthens their individual capabilities but also sets a precedent for how strategic alliances can propel the maritime sector towards a greener future.