Developing a methodology for interoperable simulation tools for optimising sustainable ship operations

Amidst regulatory updates from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and statutory requirements aiming for environmental sustainability, the shipping industry is rapidly shifting to-wards greener operational profiles. Key strategies towards net-zero include the adoption of energy-saving technologies, green fuels and onboard carbon capture systems, which are all significantly complex ventures, especially in the case of retrofits. The complexity is managed by utilising advanced process modelling and simulation software. However, as the userbase of such software grows, so does the need of interoperability. In the case of process simulation environments, reusable components can be developed by following the CAPE-OPEN interoperability standard, which is utilised by established commercial solutions. In this paper, a methodology for creating compliant models of marine energy systems is presented and an example of its utility is provided, in the form of a thermodynamic property and equilibrium calculator which can accurately simulate exhaust gases. This software will be used in future research to model cryogenic carbon capture systems.