2024.07.29
Picture of Test
EBARA CORPORATION (EBARA) announces the successful operation of its new leak-free canned motor pump for liquid ammonia※１, which features a newly developed structure introduced in September 2023. The product was delivered to JERA Co., Inc.'s Hekinan Thermal Power Station for demonstration of fuel ammonia substitution, and it successfully operated using liquid ammonia on-site.
Amid the global trend towards decarbonization, ammonia is expected to be effective in reducing greenhouse gasses not only as an energy carrier that can transport hydrogen cost-effectively and efficiently but also as a fuel that does not emit CO2 during combustion. However, due to its toxic and odorous nature, safe handling of ammonia is essential. To contribute to the safer transfer of actual liquid ammonia compared to conventional products, EBARA developed this leak-free pump with a new structure in 2023※２.
The delivered product features a design where even the motor part is immersed in liquid ammonia, allowing it to operate without leaking liquid ammonia externally. In this demonstration test, the product was installed in an outdoor environment at the power plant and operated using liquid ammonia under various patterns and loads. In all cases, the product achieved excellent results in terms of performance and functionality. During operation, it was quieter compared to conventional products, and there were no leaks of liquid ammonia, confirming not only the reliability of its design but also its safety and environmental benefits. The product will continue to be used in the demonstration tests for fuel ammonia conversion scheduled until June 2024.
The utilization of ammonia aimed at reducing greenhouse gasses (CO2) is being planned globally, and the demand for leak-free pumps is expected to expand throughout the entire supply chain, including thermal power plants.
EBARA is one of the world's leading pump manufacturers and has extensive experience in handling low to cryogenic temperature liquids. We will use this experience to support the use of alternative fuels, such as fuel ammonia, throughout supply chains.
The EBARA Group aims to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing material issues identified in its long-term vision and executing the medium-term management plan to increase corporate value.
※１ Conducted by JERA Co., Inc. and IHI Corporation as part of a subsidy project by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization).
※２ "Development of a Canned Motor Pump for Liquid Ammonia" published on our website on November 20, 2023