Itochu Corp., through its Singapore-based subsidiary Clean Ammonia Bunkering Shipping Pte. Ltd. (CABS), is building the world’s first purpose-built ammonia bunkering vessel. Scheduled for delivery in September 2027, the vessel, constructed by Sasaki Shipbuilding Co. Ltd., will operate under the Singapore flag and feature a cargo capacity of 5000 cubic meters of ammonia. Its hull design is optimized for ship-to-ship transfer operations, ensuring stability and safety during offshore bunkering. The propulsion system is expected to be ammonia-fueled, aligning with the vessel’s role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting International Maritime Organization (IMO) decarbonization targets.
The vessel will utilize a specialized ammonia tank plant engineered by Izumi Steel Works Ltd. The tank system is designed for cryogenic or pressurized storage, enabling flexibility in handling ammonia under varying operational conditions. Each tank incorporates double-walled construction with advanced insulation to minimize heat ingress and prevent leakage. The inner tanks are fabricated from low-temperature steel to withstand ammonia’s corrosive and cryogenic properties. Integrated gas detection sensors, ventilation systems, and emergency relief valves provide multiple layers of safety, while spill containment features ensure environmental protection. The plant also includes ammonia-compatible pumps and transfer lines, supported by a closed-loop vapor return system that captures and recycles vapors during bunkering, eliminating emissions and maintaining pressure balance between vessels.
A critical component of the vessel’s fuel handling system is the compressor technology supplied by Burckhardt Compression. The company’s Laby Compressor is specifically designed for ammonia service and ensures efficient vapor management. It supports the closed-loop system by compressing and condensing returned vapor back into liquid form. According to Burckhardt Compression, its design emphasizes reliability, low leakage, and compliance with stringent safety standards for toxic and cryogenic fuels.
“This order underscores our strong commitment to enabling the maritime energy transition,” said Andreas Brautsch president, Systems Division, at Burckhardt Compression. “Our Laby technology is ideally suited for the demanding requirements of ammonia service, combining decades of experience in cryogenic gas handling with cutting-edge safety and environmental performance. We are proud to contribute to this historic first for the industry. The successful operation of this ammonia bunkering vessel will help set the standards for future clean-fuel supply chains worldwide.”
By combining purpose-built hull architecture, specialized tank technology, and high-performance compression systems, Itochu and its partners are setting the stage for a new era in clean marine fuel logistics. This project not only addresses the technical challenges of handling ammonia at sea but also demonstrates a scalable model for global adoption, reinforcing ammonia’s role as a cornerstone of maritime decarbonization.
