ABS Concept Approval Advances LNG as Fuel

ABS has granted a Certificate of General Design Approval (GDA) for an IMO Type B LNG fuel tank design developed by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) of South Korea.
 
HHI’s fuel tank design was conceptualized and developed to minimize the loss of cargo space and effectively use available area on board the vessel. Targeting gas-fueled vessels, the conceptual fuel tank design is based on a 14,500 TEU containership design but can be sized for other ship types and sizes. In issuing the GDA, ABS determined that the design is in compliance with the relevant ABS Rules and Guides as well as the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code).
 
As industry continues to adjust to a changing regulatory climate, the use of LNG as fuel will continue to grow and be adopted in the marine industry. Developing vessels equipped with the latest technology and the most efficient fuel containment systems will be key to that growth.
 
Recognizing the changing landscape and increased industry focus on gas, ABS launched its Global Gas Solutions team in 2013 to support industry in developing gas-related projects. A pioneer in classification for the safe transport and handling of gas, ABS classed the world’s first LPG carrier conversion, the first LNG carrier conversion, the Methane Pioneer, in 1959, as well as the first newbuild LNG carrier, Methane Princess, in 1964, and has extensive experience with the full scope of gas-related assets, including many of the most advanced gas carriers in service.