US-based classification society ABS has granted approval in principle (AIP) to ship designer Deltamarin and French containment specialist GTT for a dual-fuel Newcastlemax bulk carrier design.
ABS said on Monday that the trio had been cooperating on the development of this LNG-fueled Newcastlemax bulk carrier that is intended to meet current and future environmental targets.
The classification society added that it would meet environmental targets by introducing GTT membrane type LNG tanks with LNG fuel stored at atmospheric pressure and designed to ABS Class.
The AIP addresses the design’s introduction of a membrane fuel tank sited in the aft of the vessel. The tank design is intended to maximize cargo capacity, with the additional tank having zero impact on available cargo space or the vessel’s hull dimensions.
Patrick Janssens , ABS VP of global gas solutions, said: “ A design such as this would allow owners and operators to capitalize on the potential of LNG as marine fuel to help meet emissions reduction objectives without having to compromise on cargo load. ABS is committed to supporting innovation in LNG shipping that helps drive operational performance and flexibility while maintaining safety standards. “