- Norwegian company Norled has successfully launched the world’s first ferry that runs on liquid hydrogen. The ship is named MF Hydra which is a hybrid that uses batteries and liquid hydrogen fuel cells.
- It was previously tested for invention at Helmeland wharf and after two weeks of sea trials, the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) has given the final approval to operate the ferry.
- Since the beginning of the year, Norled has been testing the system, and in recent weeks, the Norwegian Maritime Authority has given its final clearances.
- The ferry will travel in Norway on a triangular route between Hjelmeland, Skipavik, and Nesvik.
- The 82.4-meter-long MF Hydra, which was delivered in 2021, can carry up to 300 passengers and 80 vehicles.
- It will be able to travel at a speed of 9 knots thanks to its two 200 kW fuel cells, two 440 kW generators, and two Shottel thrusters.
- The ferry has an 80 cbm hydrogen storage tank, which should allow it to decrease its yearly carbon emissions by up to 95%.
- Norled worked with a number of foreign partners to achieve this milestone.
- The hydrogen systems on board were supplied by the German company Linde Engineering. Dane Ballard invented fuel cells that use hydrogen to generate power.
Liquid Hydrogen:-
- To exist as a liquid, H2 must be cooled below its critical point of 33 K. However, to remain completely liquid at atmospheric pressure, H2 needs to be cooled to 20.28 K (−252.87 °C; to −423.17 °C).
- A common method of obtaining liquid hydrogen involves a compressor resembling a jet engine in both appearance and principle.
