ABS has granted approval in principle to Troy, Michigan-based Altair for the cubic donut tank system (CDTS) LNG containment concept.
The concept is based on the initial design of a near prismatic shape using 12 interconnected cylinders to create the structural efficiency of a spherical tank and the volumetric efficiency of a membrane tank, ABS said on Thursday.
According to Altair ProductDesign, the CDTS enables a vessel with a shorter length but comparable draft for the same deadweight.
Altair designers say the CDTS is suitable for operations in heavy sea states at any fill level, and its lower profile compared to spherical tanks for the same cargo volume reduces hydrostatic loading.
Image: Altair