Classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has provided ‘approval in principle’ to a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering articulated tug-barge (ATB) designed by Jensen Maritime.
Classed as an A1 Liquefied Gas Tank Barge, Jensen’s ATB is suitable for mobile bunkering, the company stated.
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With a flexible design, the vessel will be able to facilitate the transfer and use of small-scale LNG in places with limited infrastructure, including offshore locations.
Jensen Maritime vice-president Johan Sperling said: "This vessel is exciting for so many reasons, but perhaps most notably because it offers a solution for the maritime industry, which struggles with whether to develop LNG infrastructure or vessels first.
"This unique concept offers customers an economical alternative to sourcing LNG terminals or trucking LNG to multiple ports."
Featuring four 1,000m³ Type C LNG tanks, the vessel will be capable of supporting a customer who has significant LNG needs at one or more ports not located near an LNG terminal.
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By GlobalDataIn addition, it will be able to carry 30,800gal of freshwater and 90,100gal of ballast water, along with 12 crewmembers.
The vessel features two GE 6L250 engines (Tier 3), each delivering at least 2,035 HP, and two Rolls Royce 205 Z-drives, with a speed of 12k.
With a double hull, the tug will be able to protect its 4,000gal fuel tank, and fire fighting capabilities.
Image: Jensen’s ATB is ideal for mobile bunkering, but not limited to the intracoastal waterways. Photo: courtesy of Crowley Maritime Corporation.
