Classification society DNV GL and South Korean shipbuilder Samsung Heavy Industries signed a joint development project agreement focused on the development of new liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier designs.
The project aims to develop two 30K LNG carrier designs, one with membrane type LNG tanks and one with type-C (pressurized) LNG tanks.
The scope of the project covers the design review, safety analysis, market research, various structural and safety evaluations, and if successful will culminate in the award of an Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV GL, according to a joint statement.
The idea for a 30K LNG carrier originates from SHI’s own research. SHI decided to develop both membrane and type C designs in parallel to give owners more options and expects that some owners may opt for type-C tanks on smaller tonnage, as is common in LNG bunkering vessels, the statement reads.
“The present business environment requires that the shipping industry moves further towards eco-friendly operations due to environmental concerns, recent international regulations, as well as rises in fuel oil prices,” said Mun-Keun Ha .
“Offering owners and operators more options to manage their operations more efficiently and sustainably is important in today’s extremely competitive market. We look forward to the further development of the design and its future success,” said Tommy Bjørnsen.