MASTERING METHANOL
This expertise , however , did not develop overnight . As early as 2015 , Uwira was already involved in delivering modular solutions made of double-walled pipes to M / S Stena Germanica , which uses methanol as fuel . Kuusisto remembers that the vessel – built in Poland – only came to existence after a lot of groundbreaking planning .
“ We were required to deliver a real innovative pipeline solution to support Wärtsilä ’ s engines and succeeded , thanks to great collaboration from all parties ,” Kuusisto says , adding that classification society Lloyd ’ s was also involved in the project .
During the years that followed , the methanol technology onboard Stena Germanica proved reliable again and again –
but it has taken a long time for the technology to catch on .
Presently , however , the French Chantiers de l ’ Atlantique ( CdA ) shipyard is building Celebrity Cruises ’ new ship , the fifth vessel in the company ’ s Edge Series , to feature methanol-readiness . Celebrity Cruises is one of the brands of Royal Caribbean .
Fitted with Wärtsilä ’ s methanol-ready engines , the new ship is scheduled for delivery from the yard in 2025 .
Kuusisto is happy to see the technology spread in Europe .
“ We firmly believe that methanol is the next big thing in maritime , even if there are availability issues right now .”
GREEN LIGHT FOR GREEN TRANSITION
Going forward , Uwira wants to continue to play a vital role in the green transition by supplying pipeline solutions , modules , and pressure vessels for new , more environmentally friendly fuels . Thomas Hägglund , Uwira Director of Development , says that finding sustainable solutions is a major issue for the entire industry .
“ We are enabling this transition and making way for a more sustainable future ,” says Hägglund .
Methanol is only one part of Uwira ’ s sustainable arsenal : ammonia and hydrogen are also in play . In fact , Uwira is involved in a marine hydrogen fuel cell system project , which enables vessels to sustain zero-emission operations for longer periods of time than would be possible using battery power alone .
HYDROGEN PIPELINE SOLUTION
The hydrogen fuel cell system is ideal for zero-emission operations onboard ships that go on routes where hydrogen supply is available .
“ Here , we are supplying doublewalled hydrogen pipelines ,” confirms Hägglund .
Hydrogen is a great fit for a company that has delivered demanding pipeline solutions over the years .
“ With this specialization , we have achieved the desired level of quality in our products . In use , our products last for decades ,” says Hägglund . n
More information : www . uwira . fi seatec 2024 49