FCC launches its first LNG-fuelled chemical tanker

US-based shipping company Fairfield Chemical Carriers (FCC) has launched its first dual-fuel chemical tanker that can run on LNG.

PHOTO: FCC’s LNG-fuelled chemical tanker Fairchem Pioneer. FCC

The 26,300-dwt chemical tanker, Fairchem Pioneer, has been jointly developed by Japanese shipbuilder Fukuoka Shipbuilding and FCC.

FCC claims that the use of LNG “significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions by up to 25% compared to traditional marine fuels.”

Fairchem Pioneer is the first in the series of two LNG dual-fuel chemical tankers being built by Fukuoka Shipbuilding. FCC has an option to extend the order to four additional vessels.

Data from classification society DNV shows that 379 LNG-powered vessels are currently in operation and that another 165 LNG-powered vessels are on order for delivery this year. The LNG-powered fleet is projected to grow by 188 from last year to this year.

By Tuhin Roy

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