The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) released its Guide for LNG bunkering, providing standards for the design, construction and survey of LNG bunkering systems that are on board a vessel.
As LNG as fuel becomes more widely adopted in the marine industry, the infrastructure will continue to expand, ABS says in its statement. LNG bunkering vessels are a prime example of that supply chain expansion and will provide a viable refueling option around the world.
The ABS Guide for LNG Bunkering sets out standards for LNG bunkering systems fitted to vessels intended for ship-to-ship LNG transfer.
The guide also addresses bunkering station safety, lifting and hose handling equipment, control, monitoring and emergency shutdown safety systems and emergency release systems.
“This guide comes just as ship owners and operators are looking for the best refueling option for their unique fleets and as the LNG supply chain is considering the right LNG bunkering solutions to meet those fleet needs,” says ABS chief technology officer, Howard Fireman .
He added that the classification society worked with the industry to develop guidance that addresses the latest technologies in LNG bunkering systems and supports the development of these systems in a safe manner.