GTT Earns Five AIPs for Multi-gas Membranes

Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT), designer of membrane containment systems for the maritime transportation and storage of LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) announced five AIPs for transportation of liquefied gases other than LNG.

As an outcome of the shale gas revolution in the U.S., there is an abundant supply of ethane. In order to use this ethane, it must be transported, consequently, interest in ethane as a cargo is on the rise, giving way to the need for dedicated vessels. The five AIPs (Approval in Principle) received from Class Societies (ABS, BV, CCS, DNV and LR) confirm that membrane technology is in a solid position among the range of containment systems. 

GTT's existing Mark III technology is being enhanced to the transport gases other than LNG, including, ethane, ethylene, propane, butane and propylene.

Membrane technology has long been a preferred choice in the LNG shipping market, and it has also been a viable solution for GTT Cargo Containment Systems on Very Large Ethane carriers. GTT has provided designs for sea transport of Ethylene and Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPGs) since 1964, with carriers ranging from 1 100m3 to 120 000m3 (ex. Pythagore, Descartes, Annabella, Ben Franklin).

"These five AIPs awarded to GTT's, proven membrane technology and the recent order of six ethane carriers (VLECs) using this technology are major steps forward in demonstrating the suitability of the GTT membrane systems for transportation of multiple types of cryogenic gases in their liquid state," declared Philippe Berterottière, Chairman and CEO of GTT.