In South Korea, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has successfully completed full-load testing of ethanol fuel on its four-stroke HiMSEN dual-fuel engine, confirming stable performance without hardware changes to its methanol-based H32DF-LM platform. The trial demonstrated reliable start-up, combustion, power output, and emissions performance using ethanol under varied load conditions.
The tests position ethanol alongside methanol as a viable low-carbon marine fuel, offering liquid-phase handling and bio-based sourcing. Hyundai said the fuel’s similarity to methanol allows it to be used with minimal modifications, while providing added flexibility in regions where methanol supply or pricing may vary.
The company plans further durability testing in line with classification society requirements. The goal is to validate the engine’s long-term performance in real-world operating environments and broaden its approval base for alternative fuels.
HiMSEN engines are widely used in auxiliary and propulsion roles on commercial vessels. With ethanol now added to its list of supported fuels, Hyundai has strengthened its appeal to shipowners seeking options beyond methanol and LNG. The company described the trial as part of a broader effort to lead in fuel-flexible engine platforms as regulatory pressure and market demand shift toward renewable liquid fuels.
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Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
