The Marine Design and Research Institute of China (MARIC) has secured Approval in Principle (AiP) from French classification society Bureau Veritas's Marine & Offshore division for its 155,000m³ ultra large ethane carrier (ULEC) design.
With a length of approximately 274m and a breadth of 42m, the ULEC is designed to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of global ethane transportation.
The vessel’s design is compatible with both GTT Mark III membrane tanks and Type B cargo tanks.
The single-propeller liquefied ethane carrier is powered by a MAN ME-GIE ethane dual-fuel main engine and supports the transportation of propylene, ethylene, and LPG, in addition to ethane.
MARIC vice president Zhu Jianzhang said: “This AiP underscores MARIC’s commitment to developing next-generation gas carriers that combine efficiency, sustainability, and advanced technology.
“With BV’s expertise, we are confident this design will contribute to the future of safe and efficient ethane transportation.”
The vessel offers a range of benefits, such as reduced unloading residue, lower boil-off rate (BOR), and higher cargo capacity utilisation.
In order to optimise fuel efficiency, the ULEC will be equipped with advanced hull lines, propellers, and rudders.
Energy-saving devices such as propeller cap fins, a pre-swirl duct, and a shaft generator are also incorporated into the design.
Additionally, the vessel will feature MARIC’s Smart Ship Solution, which integrates a Smart Navigation System (SNS), an Energy Efficiency Management System (EEMS), and a Machinery Health Management System (MHMS) to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Bureau Veritas said the design of the ULEC has been reviewed in accordance with its classification rules and key notations.
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore president Matthieu de Tugny said: “This AiP reflects our commitment to advancing innovative ship designs that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in gas transportation. We are pleased to support MARIC in this project, which demonstrates ongoing progress in the development of ultra-large ethane carriers.”
Last month, DNV awarded AiP to MARIC for a new ammonia-ready Kamsarmax bulk carrier design.
This carrier, measuring 229m in length with an increased beam of 38m, has been designed for an optimised cargo volume.
