HD KSOE Gets DNV’s Blessing for Nuclear-Powered Container Ship Design
Classification society DNV has awarded HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a new 15,000 TEU container vessel design powered by Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology.
The design demonstrates the application of SMR technology in a 15,000 TEU container vessel, capable of operating at 24 knots.
The vessel concept incorporates a supercritical CO2-based power generation system, which can provide higher thermal efficiency and a reduced equipment footprint compared to conventional steam-based systems.
DNV has reviewed the conceptual design of the nuclear-powered ship in line with the relevant rules and regulations and the safety levels as outlined in SOLAS Ch. VIII and the IMO Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships.
“This SMR-powered container vessel concept represents a key milestone in our efforts to explore alternative fuels for decarbonizing shipping. The design focuses intensely on the safety of the vessel and advancing the propulsion system in the application of SMR technology.
“In addition, we have developed a novel shielding and containment system, which is designed to maintain reactor safety and vessel survivability even in the event of collisions, groundings, or sinking accidents. We will continue to collaborate with global partners to advance marine nuclear technologies,” said Kwangpil Chang, CTO of HD KSOE.