Royal IHC's Vision: Methanol for the Beagle 4

Royal IHC recently explored the potential of adapting the propulsion system of their trailing suction hopper dredger, the Beagle 4, to operate entirely on methanol. With a hopper capacity of 4000 m³, the Beagle 4 is renowned for its flexibility and accuracy in dredging operations.

The key question was whether this transition to methanol, a fuel gaining attention for its environmental benefits, would be technically and operationally feasible. Methanol offers significant reductions in harmful emissions, with up to 60% less nitrogen oxides (NOx) and 99% less sulfur oxides (SOx) compared to traditional fuels. However, its lower energy density presents challenges, requiring larger fuel volumes to maintain operational range, which impacts tank and vessel design.

This study provided Royal IHC with valuable insights into the feasibility of using methanol as a sustainable alternative fuel, offering a pathway toward greener and more efficient maritime operations.