HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has confirmed that its HiMSEN marine engine can run reliably on ethanol, broadening the range of alternative fuels supported by its dual-fuel technology.
The verification was carried out on the methanol dual-fuel engine platform, where ethanol was used to assess combustion and overall operating behaviour.
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries stated that the engine demonstrated stable performance across the entire load range, with testing encompassing start-up performance, combustion characteristics, power stability, and exhaust emissions.
The trials were conducted while retaining most of the existing methanol engine configuration.
Ethanol, which can be stored and handled as a liquid under normal conditions, is increasingly seen as a practical low-carbon fuel, particularly when produced from bio-based sources. Interest is growing among shipowners as ethanol could help mitigate regional constraints and price fluctuations in methanol supply.
Following the initial success, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries plans to undertake extended durability testing aligned with classification society rules and commercial operating profiles.
The company said the results strengthen its position in fuel-flexible engine development and provide customers with another viable option as they plan for compliance with tightening emissions requirements.
