Ammonia fuel transport ship powered by ammonia fuel

Abstract

An ammonia fuel transport ship powered by ammonia fuel comprises a storage cabin and an engine module, the storage cabin is used for storing ammonia to be transported, the ammonia fuel transport ship powered by the ammonia fuel further comprises a first fuel supply system and a first fuel supply cabin, and the first fuel supply cabin is connected with the storage cabin. The first fuel supply cabin is used for storing ammonia fuel to be conveyed to the engine, the first fuel supply system is connected with the first fuel supply cabin and the engine module, and the first fuel supply system is used for conveying the ammonia fuel in the first fuel supply cabin to the engine module. According to the transport ship, the first fuel supply cabin storing ammonia fuel is connected with the engine module through the first fuel supply system, so that the transport ship can use the ammonia fuel as engine fuel while transporting the ammonia fuel, green and clean power energy is provided for the ship, the carbon emission during ship navigation is greatly reduced, and the service life of the ship is prolonged. And the core pain points of fuel availability and insufficient infrastructure are ingeniously solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine technology, and in particular to an ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has been continuously promoting the green and low-carbon transformation of the shipping industry. According to its strategic goals, by 2050, the shipping industry's annual greenhouse gas emissions need to be reduced by more than 50% compared to 2008 levels. Achieving this goal urgently requires technological innovation and the large-scale application of alternative fuels, especially the promotion of low-carbon and even zero-carbon emission fuels. Due to its zero-carbon characteristics and sustainable production potential, ammonia fuel is considered one of the most promising alternative fuels for achieving shipping decarbonization, capable of significantly reducing ship greenhouse gas emissions and helping to meet future environmental regulations such as the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI).

[0003] However, the large-scale application of ammonia fuel in the shipping sector is still constrained by a lack of regulations and insufficient technological maturity. According to the resolution of the 10th meeting of the International Maritime Organization's Cargo and Container Transport Subcommittee (CCC), the revision of relevant international rules regarding the use of ammonia as fuel—especially the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Liquefied Gas Ships (IGC Code)—is expected to be delayed until 2026. This reflects the current imperfections in the regulatory framework, and the need for further verification and standardization of the safety and reliability of ammonia fuel supply, storage, transportation, and combustion systems. Against this backdrop, there is an urgent need for a mature, reliable ammonia fuel propulsion system technology that meets future regulatory requirements.

[0004] In the current technological context, ammonia-fueled ships, to achieve adaptability for cross-route operations, require a complete fuel supply subsystem, including ammonia fuel day tanks, ammonia fuel processing systems, and ammonia fuel supply systems. Such systems are complex in structure and difficult to integrate, particularly posing significant challenges in equipment layout. Due to the toxicity and corrosiveness of ammonia, and its status as a low-pressure liquefied gas, extremely high requirements are placed on system sealing, material compatibility, leak monitoring, and emergency response. Existing marine ammonia fuel systems typically need to meet stringent regulations such as the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Liquefied Gas Ships in Bulk (IGC Code), leading to an increased number of devices, limited layout space, and complex piping, thus impacting the overall ship design, construction costs, and operational safety. Therefore, achieving an efficient, safe, and rational layout of the ammonia fuel system within limited hull space has become one of the key technical problems urgently needing to be solved in the design of ammonia-fueled ships. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the deficiency of existing ammonia fuel-powered ammonia fuel transport ships in lacking a complete fuel supply system including ammonia fuel day tank, ammonia fuel processing system and ammonia fuel supply system, and to provide an ammonia fuel-powered ammonia fuel transport ship.

[0006] An ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel includes a storage tank and an engine module. The storage tank is used to store ammonia to be transported. The ammonia-fueled transport vessel also includes a first fuel supply system and a first fuel supply tank. The first fuel supply tank is connected to the storage tank and is used to store ammonia fuel to be delivered to the engine. The first fuel supply system is connected to the first fuel supply tank and the engine module and is used to deliver the ammonia fuel in the first fuel supply tank to the engine module.

[0007] In this solution, a storage tank containing ammonia fuel is connected to the engine module by setting up a first fuel supply system. This allows the ammonia-powered transport ship to use ammonia fuel as engine fuel while transporting it, providing the ship with a green and clean power source. By integrating fuel supply and cargo transportation within the limited space of the ship, the main bottlenecks in equipment layout and system safety for ammonia-fueled ships are overcome. Furthermore, this solution directly utilizes cargo ammonia as a clean power source, significantly reducing carbon emissions during navigation and cleverly addressing the core pain points of fuel availability and infrastructure inadequacy during the transition period of shipping decarbonization. However, separating the storage tank from the first fuel supply tank means that the portion of the first fuel supply system located in the first fuel supply tank will generate a large amount of heat during operation. The continuous infiltration of heat will cause the temperature of the liquid ammonia in the storage tank to rise, accelerating its vaporization process and causing a sharp increase in pressure within the tank, potentially jeopardizing the safety and stability of the entire storage system. Separating the storage tank from the first fuel supply tank can prevent structural or equipment-induced vibrations from damaging the integrity of the tank's insulation layer, isolate the transfer of external heat, avoid fatigue damage to the welding points and sealing structures of the liquid ammonia tank, connecting pipes and valves, and reduce the risk of leakage.

[0008] Preferably, the first fuel supply system further includes a delivery pipeline, a delivery pump, a valve assembly unit, and a control component. The valve assembly unit is used to reduce the pressure of the supply system and to assist in the safe maintenance of the engine module. The delivery pipeline connects the delivery pump and the engine module. The control component is used to control the operating status of the first fuel supply system.

[0009] In this solution, by setting a valve group unit in the first fuel supply system to reduce the pressure of the supply system and assist in the safe maintenance of the engine module, the precise control of the ammonia fuel supply system under high pressure is ensured, and effective safety assurance is provided for the safe isolation and maintenance of core equipment.

[0010] Preferably, the delivery pipeline is a double-walled pipe; the valve assembly unit further includes a double-blocking and draining device, which connects the valve assembly unit and the engine module, and is used to isolate the first fuel supply system and the engine module and provide pressure relief and gas purging operations.

[0011] In this solution, a redundant sealing structure is constructed by setting up a double-blocking and drainage device in the valve group unit. This is achieved by arranging two independent blocking valves with a drainage interface between them. This completely isolates the upstream ammonia fuel source from the downstream equipment path. Even if a single valve experiences a very low probability of internal leakage, the other valve can still ensure the absolute sealing of the system, effectively preventing accidental leakage of toxic and flammable ammonia media and significantly improving the overall reliability of the system. The drainage valve can safely release residual high-pressure liquid or gaseous ammonia in the isolation pipe section between the two valves. This not only eliminates the risk of high-pressure fluid jets during maintenance operations but also allows for complete replacement and purification of harmful substances by connecting an inert gas purging pipeline. This creates a zero-pressure, ammonia-free safe working environment for maintenance personnel, significantly reducing the risk level of special operations.

[0012] Preferably, the ammonia-fueled transport vessel further includes a supply safety system and a supply auxiliary system. The supply safety system includes a gas detection module, an ammonia capture module, a venting mast assembly, a fire-fighting module, a ventilation module, and a venting module. The supply safety system is used to protect the first fuel supply system. The ammonia capture module is used to collect leaked ammonia and generated exhaust gas from the first fuel supply system. The ammonia capture module is connected to the venting mast assembly, which is used to discharge captured exhaust gas that meets emission standards. The supply auxiliary system provides support for the normal operation of the safety system and the first fuel supply system. The supply auxiliary system and the supply safety system are connected to the first fuel supply system.

[0013] In this solution, a supply safety system is installed on an ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel. This system includes an ammonia capture module and a venting mast assembly. Gases leaking from the delivery pipeline and those purged from the drainage device are introduced into the ammonia capture module. These gases are treated within the module to meet emission standards and then released into the air through the venting mast assembly connected to the module. An auxiliary supply system assists with fuel supply and equipment operation, prevents equipment freezing and material embrittlement, assists with cleaning and purging, and provides safe, explosion-proof power. By ensuring the reliable operation of the main system, the supply safety and auxiliary supply systems reduce the probability of fuel system failures, create a corrosion-resistant, anti-icing environment, and provide a safe maintenance environment, thus reducing the long-term maintenance difficulty and cost. Without these auxiliary and safety systems, the ammonia fuel main system could not be integrated into the vessel. They solve all the core engineering challenges posed by the toxicity, low temperature, and flammability of ammonia, making the ammonia fuel ship system engineerable and safe to use.

[0014] Preferably, the storage tank supplies liquid ammonia as fuel to the first fuel supply tank. The storage tank is arranged at a safe distance from the hull side and the outer plating of the bottom of the ship, and the safe distance meets the arrangement requirements of the low flash point fuel storage tank.

[0015] In this plan, a safe distance is maintained between the ammonia fuel tank and the side of the ship and the outer plating of the bottom, so as to minimize the probability of damage to the ammonia fuel storage tank after the ship collides or runs aground.

[0016] Preferably, the ammonia-fueled transport vessel further includes a storage security system, which includes a secondary shielding system, an air dome assembly, a maintenance platform assembly, and a fire protection system. The secondary shielding system is used to protect the hull from low-temperature damage. The air dome assembly is located above the storage tank and communicates with the storage tank. The maintenance platform assembly is located near the maintenance opening reserved in the storage tank. The fire protection system covers the hull of the storage tank.

[0017] Preferably, the secondary shielding system is located between the bulkhead of the storage tank and the hull structure of the ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel, and the secondary shielding system is supplemented with inert gas and equipped with a ventilation device.

[0018] Preferably, the gas dome assembly includes multiple gas dome units, and the distance between the gas dome units is determined according to the layout requirements of the ammonia fuel storage tank.

[0019] Preferably, the maintenance platform assembly includes a crane for lifting operating equipment located within the storage compartment.

[0020] In this design, the secondary shielding system isolates a portion of the storage tank by installing an additional enclosure between the storage tank's hull and the hull's enclosure of the ammonia-fueled transport ship. This enclosure temporarily contains leaked cryogenic liquids or toxic vapors, preventing them from directly contacting the hull structure or leaking into the environment, thus ensuring the ship's overall integrity and allowing time for emergency response. The maintenance platform is used for routine enclosure and maintenance of the storage tank, while the air dome collects leaked ammonia vapors, preventing their spread throughout the deck area and minimizing the risk.

[0021] Preferably, the ammonia-fueled transport ship also includes a refueling system for refueling and replenishing fuel, and the refueling system is arranged on the deck; the refueling system also includes a refueling safety system and a refueling pipeline, the refueling safety system is used to prevent ammonia leakage and protect the safety of the operators, and the refueling pipeline is a double-walled pipe.

[0022] Preferably, the ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel further includes a gaseous ammonia treatment mechanism, which includes a reliquefaction device and a combustion device. The reliquefaction device is used to reliquefy the gaseous ammonia generated by evaporation in the storage tank into liquid ammonia; the combustion device is used to burn the gaseous ammonia to release the pressure in the storage tank.

[0023] In this solution, the reliquefaction unit completely recovers the evaporated fuel and turns it back into usable liquid fuel, reducing fuel consumption and directly translating into longer driving range and higher operating economics. This process does not involve combustion, so it does not produce any combustion byproducts such as carbon dioxide or nitrogen oxides, making the process greener and more environmentally friendly.

[0024] Preferably, the ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel further includes an exhaust gas treatment device connected to the engine module, the exhaust gas treatment device being used to treat nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas.

[0025] In this solution, the exhaust gas treatment unit innovatively uses ammonia as a reducing agent, replacing the urea solution widely used in traditional SCR systems. This design not only fully utilizes the liquid ammonia resources carried by ammonia-fueled ships, achieving integration of the fuel and reducing agent supply system, but also significantly optimizes the system structure and operation process. Since there is no need to separately set up urea storage tanks, urea dissolution and injection devices, and other related auxiliary units for the exhaust gas treatment system, the overall system structure is greatly simplified, reducing initial investment costs, equipment space requirements, and overall weight. At the same time, using gaseous ammonia directly as a reducing agent in the catalytic reduction reaction avoids the hydrolysis and pyrolysis processes required with urea solution, improving the reaction rate and control precision. Thus, while simplifying the system, it still ensures the efficient conversion of nitrogen oxides.

[0026] Preferably, the ammonia-fueled transport vessel further includes a second fuel supply system connected to the engine module for supplying fuel to the engine module.

[0027] In this scheme, the engine module of the ammonia-fueled transport ship is a dual-fuel main engine. The engine module can burn not only ammonia fuel but also traditional fuels such as diesel to ensure that the engine module is powered when the ammonia fuel supply is insufficient or the first fuel supply system fails. The second fuel system is used to provide the engine module with energy other than ammonia fuel. The structure and working principle of the second fuel system are existing technologies and will not be described in detail here.

[0028] Based on common knowledge in the field, the above-mentioned preferred conditions can be combined arbitrarily to obtain various preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] The positive and progressive effects of this invention are as follows:

[0030] This invention connects the storage tank containing ammonia fuel to the engine module through a first fuel supply system. This allows the ammonia-fueled transport ship to use ammonia fuel as engine fuel while transporting it, providing a green and clean power source for the vessel. By integrating fuel supply and cargo transportation within the limited space of the ship, it overcomes the main bottlenecks in equipment layout and system safety for ammonia-fueled ships. Furthermore, this solution directly utilizes cargo ammonia as a clean power source, significantly reducing carbon emissions during navigation and cleverly addressing the core pain points of fuel availability and infrastructure inadequacy during the transition period of shipping decarbonization. However, separating the storage tank from the first fuel supply tank causes the portion of the first fuel supply system located in the first fuel supply tank to generate a large amount of heat during operation. The continuous infiltration of heat can cause the liquid ammonia temperature in the storage tank to rise, accelerating its vaporization process and causing a sharp increase in pressure within the tank, potentially jeopardizing the safety and stability of the entire storage system. Separating the storage tank from the first fuel supply tank can prevent structural or equipment-induced vibrations from damaging the integrity of the tank's insulation layer, isolate the transfer of external heat, avoid fatigue damage to the welding points and sealing structures of the liquid ammonia tank, connecting pipes and valves, and reduce the risk of leakage. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a partial top view schematic diagram of an ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a partial side view (a) of an ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 3This is a partial side view (II) of an ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 4 This is a front view schematic diagram of the first fuel supply compartment according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 5 This is a top view schematic diagram of a reliquefaction apparatus and a supply auxiliary system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a side view schematic diagram of a reliquefaction device and a gaseous ammonia treatment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a top view schematic diagram of a first fuel supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 8 This is a side view of a first fuel supply system and ventilation module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0040] Storage compartment 1

[0041] Engine Module 2

[0042] First fuel supply system 3

[0043] Valve assembly unit 31

[0044] First fuel supply compartment 4

[0045] Supply Security System 5

[0046] Ventilation mast assembly 51

[0047] Ventilation Module 52

[0048] Storage security system 6

[0049] Air dome component 61

[0050] Refueling System 7

[0051] betting station 71

[0052] Filling pipe 72

[0053] Gaseous ammonia treatment unit 8

[0054] Reliquefaction unit 81

[0055] Supply Support System 9 Detailed Implementation

[0056] The present invention is further illustrated below by way of embodiments, but the invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments described herein. Experimental methods in the following embodiments that do not specify specific conditions were performed according to conventional methods and conditions, or as selected according to the product instructions.

[0057] like Figures 1-4 As shown, this embodiment provides an ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel, comprising a storage tank 1 and an engine module 2. The storage tank 1 stores ammonia to be transported. The ammonia-fueled transport vessel also includes a first fuel supply system 3 and a first fuel supply tank 4. The first fuel supply tank 4 is connected to the storage tank 1 and stores ammonia fuel to be delivered to the engine. Before the engine runs, the storage tank 1 transports a portion of liquid ammonia from a pipeline into the first fuel supply tank 4 as power for the engine. The storage tank 1 does not directly supply fuel to the engine module 2. The first fuel supply system 3 connects the first fuel supply tank 4 and the engine module 2, and is used to deliver the ammonia fuel in the first fuel supply tank 4 to the engine module 2. In this embodiment, by separating the storage tank 1 and the first fuel supply tank 4, the portion of the first fuel supply system 3 located in the first fuel supply tank 4 generates a large amount of heat during operation. The continuous infiltration of heat causes the temperature of the liquid ammonia in the storage tank to rise, accelerating its vaporization process and causing a sharp increase in the pressure inside the tank, which may endanger the safety and stability of the entire storage system. Separating the storage tank 1 from the first fuel supply tank 4 can prevent structural or equipment-induced vibrations from damaging the integrity of the tank's insulation layer, isolate the transmission of external heat, avoid fatigue damage to the welding points and sealing structures of the liquid ammonia tank, connecting pipes and valves, and reduce the risk of leakage.

[0058] like Figures 7-8 As shown, in this embodiment, the first fuel supply system 3 further includes a delivery pipeline, a delivery pump, a valve assembly unit 31, and a control component. The valve assembly unit 31 is used to reduce the pressure of the supply system and assist in the safe maintenance of the engine module 2. The delivery pipeline connects the delivery pump and the engine module 2. The control component is used to control the operating status of the first fuel supply system 3. When the engine module 2 switches to ammonia fuel mode, the control component in the first fuel supply system 3 opens the valve of the delivery pipeline connected to the first fuel supply chamber 4. The delivery pump provides power to draw ammonia fuel from the first fuel supply chamber 4 into the delivery pipeline. The delivery pipeline transports the ammonia fuel to the engine module 2. The ammonia fuel is injected into the cylinder through a high-pressure injection system, mixed with air, and then a metered amount of diesel fuel is injected as ignition fuel to ignite the fuel, thereby providing power to the engine.

[0059] In this embodiment, the main engine in engine module 2 is a MAN Energy Solution ME-LGIP series two-stroke low-speed engine, operating in liquid fuel mode based on the Diesel cycle principle. The ME-LGIP engine is designed as a dual-fuel engine using both ammonia and fuel oil, ensuring the system provides a pressure below 80 bar and maintaining this pressure for injection into the cylinders. When engine module 2 needs to exit ammonia fuel mode, the dual-blocking and draining device in valve unit 31 performs the main functions of safe switching and draining. The dual-blocking and draining device connects valve unit 31 and engine module 2, isolating the first fuel supply system 3 from engine module 2 and providing pressure relief and gas purging operations. Specifically, in this embodiment, when engine module 2 exits ammonia fuel mode or is in maintenance mode and needs to disconnect from the various supply systems, the control system controls the two blocking valves on the dual-blocking device, with the first blocking valve closing to cut off the flow. The fuel source from storage compartment 1 is cut off, and the second shut-off valve closes, cutting off the fuel path to engine module 2. At this time, the double shut-off device isolates a closed pipeline on the delivery pipeline. At this time, some ammonia fuel still remains in the closed pipeline. Then, the drain valve in the two shut-off valves is opened to safely release the high-pressure ammonia in the isolated section of the pipeline into the exhaust gas treatment system. At the same time, the residual liquid ammonia can also be discharged into the collection system. Finally, inert gases such as nitrogen can be introduced into the pipeline for purging to thoroughly clean the residual ammonia in the pipeline, thereby completing the safe shut-off of the delivery pipeline.

[0060] like Figures 5-6As shown, in this embodiment, when liquid ammonia flows in the pipeline, it will generate some gaseous ammonia due to the increase in temperature, causing the system pressure to rise. This poses many risks during transportation. Therefore, the ammonia fuel-powered ammonia fuel transport ship also includes a supply safety system 5 and a supply auxiliary system 9. The supply safety system 5 includes a gas detection module, an ammonia capture module, a venting mast assembly 51, a fire-fighting module, a ventilation module 52, and a venting module. The supply safety system 5 is used to protect the first fuel supply system 3. The ammonia capture module is used to collect leaked ammonia gas and generated waste gas from the pipeline. The ammonia capture module is connected to the venting mast assembly 51, which is used to discharge the captured waste gas that meets the emission standards. The pipeline is a double-walled pipe, and the gas detection module covers all pipelines. When the gas detection module detects an ammonia fuel leak in the pipeline... The leaked gas will be guided to the ammonia capture module, where the ammonia will be removed, preventing the ammonia from being directly discharged into the atmosphere. The ammonia cleared from the aforementioned dual-blocking and drainage devices will also be introduced into the ammonia capture system. After the ammonia capture system processes the gas to meet emission standards, the gas that meets the emission standards will be discharged into the atmosphere through the ventilation mast component 51 of the ammonia capture system. The working principle of the ammonia capture system is existing technology and will not be described in detail here. In this embodiment, the location of the ventilation mast should be determined based on factors such as the prevailing wind direction, personnel distribution, and the location of the fresh air system. It should be located downwind of the prevailing wind direction, away from residential areas and fresh air inlets. The distance between the outlet location and the upper building opening, the air inlet / outlet of the gas safety location, and the exhaust outlet of the machinery and equipment should be greater than 10 meters. The structure of the ventilation mast is existing technology and will not be described in detail here.

[0061] like Figures 5-6As shown, the auxiliary supply system 9 provides support for the normal operation of the safety supply system 5 and the first fuel supply system 3; the auxiliary supply system 9 and the safety supply system 5 are connected to the first fuel supply system 3. The auxiliary supply system 9 includes a water-glycol system, an instrument air system, etc. The auxiliary supply system 9 is connected to the safety supply system 5 and the first fuel supply system 3 to assist in fuel supply and normal equipment operation. In this embodiment, the water-glycol system in the auxiliary supply system 9 can prevent equipment freezing and material embrittlement. Because the storage temperature of ammonia fuel is extremely low, the pipes in direct contact with it will freeze due to the low temperature, causing equipment jamming or damage. The water-glycol solution has a low freezing point (which can be set below -30°C by adjusting the glycol ratio). The system circulates and pumps these coolants to the heat tracing pipelines or jackets of equipment that needs to be insulated (such as valve group unit 31, some low-temperature pipelines), using its relatively high temperature (e.g., 5°C to 15°C) to heat and insulate the low-temperature equipment, preventing freezing and equipment failure. The nitrogen system in the auxiliary system can also assist in cleaning and purging, and provide safe and explosion-proof power. These are existing technologies and will not be elaborated further. The supply safety system 5 and the supply auxiliary system 9 reduce the probability of fuel system failure by ensuring the reliable operation of the main system. By preventing corrosion and icing and providing a safe maintenance environment, they reduce the difficulty and cost of long-term system maintenance. Without these auxiliary and safety systems, the ammonia fuel main system could not be integrated into the ship at all. They solve all the core engineering problems caused by the toxicity, low temperature and flammability of ammonia, making the ammonia fuel ship system engineeringable and safe to use.

[0062] In this embodiment, the conveying pipeline adopts a double-walled pipe. The inner pipe is used to convey ammonia fuel, and the outer pipe is wrapped around the outside of the inner pipe to form a closed annular space. The conveying pipeline is also equipped with a double-walled ventilation system to detect the sealing performance of the pipeline. If the system detects ammonia fuel leakage in the pipeline, it will guide the leaked ammonia fuel to the supply safety system 5.

[0063] like Figures 1-3 As shown, in this embodiment, the storage tank 1 is set at a safe distance from the side of the ship and the outer plating of the bottom. The location of the storage tank is required to comply with the requirements of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Liquefied Gas Ships in Bulk (hereinafter referred to as the IGC Code) regarding the location of the low flash point fuel storage tank 1. The physical protection isolation requirement (deterministic method) is adopted, or the probability method can be used for calculation to ensure that the ammonia fuel tank maintains a safe distance from the side of the ship and the outer plating of the bottom, so as to minimize the probability of damage to the ammonia fuel storage tank 1 after the ship collides or runs aground.

[0064] The ammonia-fueled transport ship is also equipped with a storage security system 6, which includes a secondary shielding system, an air dome assembly 61, a maintenance platform assembly, and a fire protection system. The secondary shielding system protects the hull from low-temperature damage. The air dome assembly 61 is located above and connected to the storage tank 1. The maintenance platform assembly is located near the maintenance openings reserved in the storage tank 1. The fire protection system covers the hull of the storage tank 1. The secondary shielding system isolates a portion of the space surrounding the storage tank 1 by setting up an additional enclosure structure between the enclosure structure of the storage tank 1 and the enclosure structure of the ammonia-fueled transport ship. When the main shielding system fails and causes a liquid ammonia leak, it can temporarily contain the leaked low-temperature liquid or toxic vapor, preventing it from directly contacting the hull structure or leaking into the environment, thereby ensuring the overall integrity of the ship and reserving time for emergency measures. This is because the storage temperature of liquid ammonia at normal pressure is approximately -33°C, and ordinary hull structural steel (such as carbon steel) will rapidly become brittle and lose its toughness at such low temperatures. If cryogenic liquids come into direct contact with the hull, it may cause "cryobrittle fracture" of the hull steel, leading to catastrophic structural failure. The secondary shielding system is also equipped with cryogenic detectors and ammonia detectors. When the main shielding system fails, the detectors can immediately sound an alarm. Simultaneously, the secondary shielding plays a role in delaying the failure, allowing sufficient time for emergency rescue. Furthermore, the secondary shielding system is filled with inert gas to eliminate oxygen within the secondary shielding space, thereby fundamentally preventing the risk of fire and explosion, and suppressing the toxicity of ammonia. In this embodiment, a liquid level measuring device is installed in the gas dome, along with a maximum liquid level alarm sensor. This prevents overfilling of storage tank 1 and the resulting safety accident. Moreover, in the event of a leak in storage tank 1, toxic or flammable ammonia vapor will first accumulate within this dome space, rather than immediately spreading to the entire deck area, greatly reducing the risk of contact with personnel and ignition sources. A crane is installed on the maintenance platform to lift equipment such as the ammonia fuel transfer pump from storage tank 1 for operational use.

[0065] like Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment, the ammonia-fueled transport ship also includes a refueling system 7. The refueling system 7 includes two refueling stations 71, symmetrically arranged on both sides of the main deck in the open cargo hold area. A crane is installed next to each refueling station 71 to assist in the operation. The refueling system 7 also includes a refueling safety system and refueling pipelines 72. The refueling safety system is used to prevent ammonia leakage and protect the safety of personnel. The refueling safety system includes a fixed dry powder fire extinguishing system covering all possible leakage points, located at the top of the refueling station 71 and at the refueling... A protective steel plate is installed at the top of the pipeline 72. The refueling safety system includes a spray system above the refueling pipeline 72. The spray system can absorb the small amount of leaked ammonia gas, preventing the ammonia content in the air from being too high and affecting the life, health and safety of the surrounding refueling operators. The working principle of the spray system is already disclosed in the prior art and will not be described in detail here. A collection tray is installed below the pipeline to collect the leaked liquid. The refueling pipeline 72 is a double-walled pipe. The refueling safety system also includes personnel protective equipment and other mechanisms. This part is already disclosed in the prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0066] In other embodiments, there may be two or more refueling stations 71, and the refueling stations 71 may be located in other places that are convenient for fuel replenishment. The refueling security system may include other safety protection measures, which will not be described in detail here.

[0067] In this embodiment, the ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel also includes a gaseous ammonia processing mechanism 8. The gaseous ammonia processing mechanism 8 includes a reliquefaction device 81 and a combustion device. The reliquefaction device is used to reliquefy the gaseous ammonia produced by evaporation in the storage tank 1 into liquid ammonia. The combustion device is used to burn the gaseous ammonia to release the pressure in the storage tank 1. The reliquefaction device 81 first collects the gaseous ammonia and sends it to a compressor for pressurization and heating. Then, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous ammonia is sent to a condenser, where it is cooled to room-temperature, high-pressure liquid ammonia. The pressure is then reduced by a pressure-reducing valve, lowering the temperature of the liquid ammonia, which is then liquefied and transported to the storage tank 1. This mechanism processes the gaseous ammonia while controlling the temperature and pressure inside the tank, ensuring the system safety and operational efficiency of the ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel. The combustion device and the reliquefaction device 81 constitute a double-layer defense for gaseous ammonia processing. The working principle of the combustion device is existing technology and will not be described in detail here. In addition, ammonia-fueled transport ships also include an exhaust gas treatment system. In this embodiment, the exhaust gas treatment system is a selective catalytic reduction exhaust gas treatment system (hereinafter referred to as the SCR system). After the high-temperature exhaust gas emitted by the engine enters the SCR system, the system injects a reducing agent. Ammonia is injected into the exhaust gas as a catalyst through a pump. The high-temperature exhaust gas reacts with ammonia and enters the catalytic reactor, where a reduction reaction occurs. Finally, it is converted into harmless nitrogen and water and then discharged. The SCR system converts nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water by precisely injecting a reducing agent and under the action of a catalyst. The nitrogen oxide conversion efficiency is extremely high. This not only directly avoids the environmental advantages of ammonia fuel being offset by nitrogen oxide emissions, but also effectively inhibits the generation of harmful gases, ensuring that the low-carbon emission reduction benefits of ammonia fuel are truly realized. In this solution, ammonia is used instead of traditional urea solution as a catalyst, eliminating the need to set up an extra urea tank in the system, simplifying the system structure while ensuring the efficiency of exhaust gas treatment.

[0068] In this embodiment, the engine module 2 of the ammonia-fueled transport ship is a dual-fuel main engine. The engine module 2 can burn not only ammonia fuel but also traditional fuels such as diesel fuel to ensure that the engine module 2 is powered when the ammonia fuel supply is insufficient or the first fuel supply system 3 fails. The second fuel system is used to provide the engine module 2 with energy other than ammonia fuel. When the ammonia-fueled transport ship exits the ammonia fuel mode, the valve group unit 31 in the first fuel supply system 3 cuts off the supply of ammonia fuel to the pipeline, and the first fuel supply system 3 is disconnected from the engine module 2. At this time, the second fuel supply system connects to the engine module 2 and pumps other fuels, such as diesel fuel, to the engine module 2. The working principle and structural composition of the second fuel supply system are already disclosed in the prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0069] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative examples, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Those skilled in the art can make various changes or modifications to these embodiments without departing from the principles and essence of the present invention, but all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel, comprising a storage tank and an engine module, wherein the storage tank is used to store ammonia to be transported, characterized in that, The ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel also includes a first fuel supply system and a first fuel supply tank. The first fuel supply tank is connected to the storage tank and is used to store ammonia fuel to be delivered to the engine. The first fuel supply system connects the first fuel supply tank and the engine module and is used to deliver the ammonia fuel in the first fuel supply tank to the engine module.

2. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first fuel supply system further includes a delivery pipeline, a delivery pump, a valve assembly unit, and a control component. The valve assembly unit is used to reduce the pressure of the supply system and to assist in the safe maintenance of the engine module. The delivery pipeline connects the delivery pump and the engine module. The control component is used to control the operating status of the first fuel supply system.

3. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The delivery pipeline adopts a double-walled pipe; the valve group unit also includes a double-blocking and drainage device, which connects the valve group unit and the engine module. The double-blocking and drainage device is used to isolate the first fuel supply system and the engine module and provide pressure relief and gas purging operations.

4. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ammonia-fueled transport vessel also includes a supply safety system and a supply auxiliary system. The supply safety system includes a gas detection module, an ammonia capture module, a venting mast assembly, a fire-fighting module, a ventilation module, and a venting module. The supply safety system is used to protect the first fuel supply system. The ammonia capture module is used to collect leaked ammonia and generated exhaust gas from the first fuel supply system. The ammonia capture module is connected to the venting mast assembly, which is used to discharge captured exhaust gas that meets emission standards. The supply auxiliary system supports the normal operation of the safety system and the first fuel supply system. The supply auxiliary system and the supply safety system are connected to the first fuel supply system.

5. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The storage tank supplies liquid ammonia as fuel to the first fuel supply tank. The storage tank is installed at a safe distance from the hull side and the outer plating of the bottom of the ship, and the safe distance meets the arrangement requirements of the low flash point fuel storage tank.

6. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ammonia-fueled transport ship also includes a storage security system, which includes a secondary shielding system, an air dome assembly, a maintenance platform assembly, and a fire protection system. The secondary shielding system is used to protect the hull from low-temperature damage. The air dome assembly is located above the storage tank and communicates with the storage tank. The maintenance platform assembly is located near the maintenance opening reserved in the storage tank. The fire protection system covers the hull of the storage tank.

7. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The secondary shielding system is located between the bulkhead of the storage tank and the hull structure of the ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel. The secondary shielding system is supplemented with inert gas and equipped with a ventilation device. And / or, the gas dome assembly includes multiple gas dome units, the distance between the gas dome units being determined according to the layout requirements of the ammonia fuel storage tank; And / or, the maintenance platform assembly includes a crane for lifting operating equipment located within the storage compartment.

8. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ammonia-fueled transport ship also includes a refueling system for refueling and replenishing fuel, which is located on the deck. The refueling system also includes a refueling safety system and refueling pipelines. The refueling safety system is used to prevent ammonia leakage and protect the safety of personnel. The refueling pipelines are double-walled pipes.

9. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ammonia-fueled transport ship also includes a gaseous ammonia treatment system, which includes a reliquefaction device and a combustion device. The reliquefaction device is used to reliquefy the gaseous ammonia produced by evaporation in the storage tank into liquid ammonia; the combustion device is used to burn the gaseous ammonia to release the pressure in the storage tank.

10. The ammonia-fueled transport ship powered by ammonia fuel as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ammonia-fueled transport ship also includes an exhaust gas treatment system connected to the engine module, which is used to treat nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas. And / or, the ammonia-fueled transport vessel powered by ammonia fuel further includes a second fuel supply system connected to the engine module for supplying fuel to the engine module.

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