American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has unveiled a new set of guidelines and software for the chemical tanker owners, operators and shipyards.

The new ABS Guide for Materials and Welding for Stainless Steels features the minimum requirements for properties, manufacturing processes and production techniques for common types of stainless steels used in the marine and offshore sectors.

The guidance is designed for the construction and maintenance of stainless steel tanks used on chemical tankers.

ABS’s new CHEM software allows chemical tanker owners or operators to quickly decide whether their vessel is able to carry a specific type of chemical.

Software can be updated according to the changes in regulations. Its certification can be maintained easily and enables tanker operators to understand the kind of chemicals that can be transported based on current regulations, according to ABS.

“We developed this industry-leading guidance and innovative software to enhance safety in the sector and make it straightforward to stay compliant.”

ABS Chemical Carriers senior technical advisor Stein Nilsen said: “ABS is a global leader in chemical tankers and uniquely understands the challenges faced by owners and operators.

“We developed this industry-leading guidance and innovative software to enhance safety in the sector and make it straightforward to stay compliant.”

Last month, ABS released new guidance on the identification of quality additive manufactured parts used in the marine and offshore industries.

The ABS Guidance Notes on Additive Manufacturing also includes information on the processes and systems used to create additive manufacturing parts, including Directed Energy Deposition, Powder Bed Fusion, and Binder Jetting.