Hydrogen is a clean, sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. However, adopting hydrogen as a marine fuel involves overcoming significant technological and regulatory hurdles. The sHYpS project addresses this challenge by developing a swappable liquid hydrogen storage system. This solution is designed to enable vessels to efficiently exchange empty hydrogen containers for full ones, reducing downtime and supporting the decarbonization of maritime transport. By focusing on adaptability, sHYpS aims to help the industry meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) targets for 2030 and 2050.
Addressing the challenges
Implementing hydrogen-powered solutions in shipping is complex. Production and distribution of cryogenic tanks suitable for transporting and storing hydrogen are still limited, making logistical planning critical. Another challenge is the lack of clear regulations for using hydrogen as a marine fuel. While existing frameworks provide some guidance, the absence of specific prescriptive rules means that a risk-based design approach is required. The project also faces technical difficulties, as hydrogen storage and handling systems have not yet been fully tested at scale.
First demonstration on a cruise ship
The first demonstration will take place aboard a cruise ship, focusing on integrating swappable hydrogen containers and their supporting systems. This implementation will provide valuable insights for scaling the technology to freight vessels and beyond.
Ensuring safe Hydrogen swapping operations
One of the key aspects of the sHYpS initiative is ensuring the safe handling of hydrogen on board ships, particularly during container swapping. Sofis has designed a solution with valve interlock systems to create a reliable and secure solution.
Pressure relief valves
The hydrogen containment system uses two pressure safety valves (PSVs) for each container. These valves manage overpressure by venting hydrogen through dedicated vent lines. During transportation, the system routes pressure relief through a vent line connected to a valve. Once a container is secured to the ship’s docking station, the configuration changes: the valve is closed, and another valve opened, allowing venting to the ship’s main vent mast. The transition between these states requires careful coordination.
Valve interlocks secure safe valve operations
Sofis has implemented valve interlocks that ensure both valves are temporarily open during swapping but are never closed simultaneously. This configuration eliminates the risk of overpressure while maintaining continuous safety during operations. By integrating these valve interlocks, Sofis eliminates the risk of human error during the swapping process, ensuring smooth and safe hydrogen operations.
Electro-mechanical key cabinet
To further enhance safety, the interlock system is integrated with an electro-mechanical cabinet. This cabinet communicates with the ship’s control system, monitoring whether interlock keys are correctly stored during the opening and closing sequences. This level of automation reduces human error and improves operational reliability.
The potential of Hydrogen shipping
The first demonstration of the sHYpS system aboard a cruise vessel will showcase the feasibility of modular hydrogen storage for large-scale maritime use. The system’s design allows for adaptation to different ship types, making it a versatile solution for both passenger and freight applications. While challenges remain, the combination of modular storage technology, rigorous safety measures, and risk-based design provides a promising pathway for hydrogen adoption in shipping.