Yanmar Power Technology tests pilot-ignition hydrogen four-stroke high-speed engine for coastal vessels

Yanmar Power Technology has completed a land-based demonstration test of a pilot-ignition hydrogen four-stroke high-speed engine for power generation in coastal vessels, achieving operation at a rated output of approximately 500kW. This trial was conducted as part of the Nippon Foundation’s zero-emission ship demonstration experiment.

The tested pilot-ignition hydrogen engine uses a small amount of diesel oil as the ignition source (pilot fuel) to burn a pre-mixture of hydrogen and air. With this operation, the engine reportedly achieved the world’s highest hydrogen fuel ratio and an output of approximately 500kW.

Yanmar Power Technology plans to continue zero-emission trials using biofuel as the pilot fuel, while also working toward obtaining class certification for demonstration operations scheduled for 2026.

The zero-emission ship project

This project, led by the Nippon Foundation, focuses on the development of hydrogen-powered, zero-emission ships and supports related technology development. In addition to hydrogen engine development, the project is currently working on a hydrogen-engine-compatible hybrid electric propulsion vessel, combining hydrogen engine generators with batteries. The vessel design incorporates a container-unit type of hydrogen power generation system on its upper deck. Uyeno Transtech, a shipping company in the Uyeno Group, is responsible for the vessel’s development and construction.

To find out more about the development of Yanmar Power Technology’s hydrogen-fueled four-stroke high-speed engine, click here.