Classification society Lloyd’s Register (LR) has provided ‘approval in principle’ to a bi-lobe liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier design developed by Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction (HHIC).
The 30,000m³ LNG carrier design with bi-lobe type ‘C’ tanks will be used for small-scale and costal LNG trading.
Lloyd’s Register Gas Technology manager Leondias Karitsios said: “Interest in small-scale LNG is growing fast.
“This project has demonstrates a path to a practical, buildable LNG carrier for smaller cargo sizes.”
The new small-scale LNG carrier concept uses existing shipbuilding methods but incorporates features to enhance energy efficiency and cargo capacity.
The bi-lobe type ‘C’ cargo tank technology is expected to cater to future LNG trading patterns in the coastal waters.
HHIC Ship Sales Engineering Team senior vice-president Lee Cha-Soo said: “HHIC is proud to be working with Lloyd’s Register, which is a leading player in the LNG shipping industry, to design the 30,000m³ LNG carrier.
“The bi-lobe type 30,000m³ LNG carrier utilises existing technology which can be applied to existing and new vessels today.”
According to International Gas Union’s 2012 -15 Triennium Work Report, small scale LNG business will grow towards a 30 mtpa business globally by 2020.
Currently, significant small-scale LNG import, break bulk and regasification is already present in China, Japan, Spain, Portugal, Turkey and Norway.
Image: Staff from Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction receiving ‘approval in principle’. Photo: Lloyd’s Register Group Services Limited.
