Requirements for Hydrogen Fueled Vessels published by ABS

The American Bureau of Shipping on 1 May 2023 issued the Requirements for Hydrogen Fueled Vessels.

These requirements have been developed to further support the application of hydrogen as fuel to ABS Classed vessels.

Where the requirements are proposed to be used for compliance with the IGF code, such application is subject to approval by the vessel’s flag Administration prior to the issuance of relevant statutory certificates on behalf of the same flag Administration by ABS.

The applicable edition of the Marine Vessel Rules is to be used in conjunction with this document.

These requirements become effective on the first day of the month of publication.

This document has been developed to provide guidance for the design, construction, and survey of vessels using hydrogen as fuel.

This document focuses on systems and arrangements provided for the use of hydrogen for propulsion and auxiliary systems.

Objective

This document provides Classification requirements, standards and criteria for the arrangements, construction, installation and survey of machinery, equipment and systems for vessels operating with hydrogen as fuel to minimize risks to the vessel, crew and the environment.

Application

These requirements apply to both new construction and existing vessel conversions, regardless of vessel/ unit size, including those of less than 500 gross tonnage, utilizing hydrogen as fuel in internal combustion engines, fuel cells, or other hydrogen combustion equipment (e.g., boilers).

Where this document includes cross references to Parts A-1, B-1 and C-1 of the IGF Code (5C-13-5 to 5C-13-18 inclusive of the Marine Vessel Rules) or other recognized standards, requirements for equipment and systems are to be applied as applicable to hydrogen fuel.

If you need more information, please visit the ABS Rules and Guides page, where the document is available FOR FREE.