HMD - Experts & Thought Leaders

DNV has awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) to HD Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HD HMD) for an ammonia dual-fuel medium gas carrier (MGC) design featuring a forward accommodation layout. The AiP was presented to Mr. D.J. Lee, Executive Vice President/Head of Initial Design Division & Detailed Design Division at HD HMD, by Vidar Dolonen, Regional Manager for Korea & Japan at DNV, during a ceremony at Gastech 2025. Integrating future technology solutions The vessel concept relocates the crew accommodation block to the fore section, providing new flexibility and additional useable space on board - enabling the application of environmentally friendly technologies, such as carbon capture and storage units, alternative fuels, or other energy efficiency or emission reduction solutions. This design also realises sufficient space for installing an ammonia dual-fuel propulsion system and carbon capture equipment, while providing flexibility for integrating future technology solutions to comply with shipping’s rapidly evolving environmental regulations. Adoption of next-generation technologies The vessel concept relocates the crew accommodation block to the fore section, providing new flexibility Mr. D.J. Lee, Executive Vice President/Head of Initial Design Division & Detailed Design Division at HD HMD, said: "This innovative design reflects our commitment to delivering solutions that address customer needs and global sustainability targets." He adds, "Working with DNV, we aim to accelerate the adoption of next-generation technologies for a greener maritime industry." Latest green solutions Vidar Dolonen, Regional Manager for Korea & Japan at DNV, said: "One of the challenges associated with alternative fuels and energy efficiency-enhancing technologies is optimising design for the space required for onboard installation." He adds, "As the energy transition gathers momentum, we are seeing innovators like HD Hyundai Mipo work on finding ways to optimise their designs to maximise the economic potential of a vessel, while giving owners the flexibility to utilise the latest green solutions. We are very pleased to award this AiP to HD Hyundai Mipo and look forward to a productive and deepening cooperation." Framework of requirements An Approval in Principle (AiP) is an independent evaluation of a concept based on a predefined framework of requirements. It confirms the feasibility of the design and ensures there are no significant technical obstacles hindering its implementation.

ABS and HD Hyundai Mipo (HMD) have signed a joint development project (JDP) for digital manufacturing-based automation equipment for shipyards. The JDP establishes a collaborative framework focused on leveraging smart technology within HD Hyundai Mipo’s shipyard operations that include artificial intelligence, communication technologies, automation and robotics. ABS will utilise its Guide for Smart Technologies for Shipyards to help HMD identify opportunities for process improvement, focusing on key features such as hyper-connectivity, advanced automation and data-driven intelligence. Technology revolutionising shipyard production “Cutting-edge technologies are revolutionising shipyard production, pushing boundaries and unlocking new possibilities. Smart features are enhancing health, safety, and quality processes, allowing efficiency and innovation in modern shipbuilding,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO. “From augmented and virtual reality to 3D engineering, AI-based simulation, digital twins, and robotics and automation, these advancements are shaping the future of smart ships and smart shipbuilding.” Digital manufacturing “With this joint development project, we aspire for the digital manufacturing initiative spearheaded by Mipo to receive objective evaluations from certification bodies and establish itself as a global standard,” said Hyung Kwan Kim, HMD President and Chief Executive Officer. “Furthermore, we hope it will act as a force multiplier for ship-owners and classification societies, resulting in making construction processes more efficient,” concluded the HMD President. Potential of the collaboration The collaboration could also lead to improved procedures in shipyard operations and survey processes The JDP outlines the potential for additional certifications from ABS, such as Product Design Assessment or Manufacturing Assessment, provided all necessary criteria are met. The collaboration could also lead to improved procedures in shipyard operations and survey processes, efficiencies beneficial to both ABS and HMD. ABS is guiding the industry with leading research and insights to support technology advancement in the marine and offshore industries.

Wärtsilä Gas Solutions, part of technology group Wärtsilä, will supply the cargo handling systems for three 45,000 m3 capacity gas carrier vessels being built at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) in Korea. The order was placed by HMD and booked by Wärtsilä in Q1, 2025. Two of the ships have been contracted by Singapore and Hong Kong headquartered ship owner/operator Purus, and the third by Pasco Gas, based in Istanbul, Turkey. Both owners have previously ordered similar vessels fitted with Wärtsilä cargo handling systems. Cargo handling and reliquefaction systems Wärtsilä Gas Solutions is a world-pioneering designer and supplier of advanced cargo handling and reliquefaction systems to gas carriers of all sizes. ​The company has established a close relationship with HMD over the years on a broad range of gas-related products and systems. "HMD is a key customer in the medium-sized gas carrier market. Over the past decade, we have equipped more than 15 medium-sized gas carriers built by HMD. We are excited to continue with the latest project and several other ongoing ones," comments Patrick Ha, Sales Manager, Wärtsilä Gas Solutions.  The Wärtsilä equipment is scheduled for delivery to the yard commencing in the latter part of 2025.