Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard's dual-fuel LNG carrier receives multiple class approvals

Classification societies ABS, Lloyd's Register (LR) and DNV have approved in principle the design of Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard's 271,000 cbm dual-fuel LNG carrier.

PHOTO: CSSC Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard's team receiving AiP from DNV for its ultra-large LNG carrier. DNV

Hudong–Zhonghua Shipbuilding is a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC).

The vessel will be equipped with five cargo tanks with a combined capacity of 271,000 cbm, making it the world's largest LNG carrier (LNGC) at the moment, concurred the classification societies at Gastech 2023 exhibition in Singapore.

ABS confirmed that the vessel can run on marine diesel and a “low-carbon fuel”. However, it has not specified whether the vessel will be powered by LNG or any other low-emission fuel.

“The design features flexible dual-fuel propulsion and an air lubrication system for more sustainable operations. The synergy of a more efficient hull and the use of low-carbon fuel in the fuel-efficient engine is expected to translate to the lowering of the overall carbon footprint of the vessel,” ABS explained.

The air lubrication system uses air from air release units (ARUs) in the hull to generate air bubbles that run continuously beneath the ship’s surface, forming a coat of air that reduces drag.

The approval “signposts a landmark moment for the growth of ultra-large LNGC’s, at a time when the global supply of LNG is pivotal for the maritime energy transition,” said Andy McKeran, chief commercial officer at LR.

By Konica Bhatt

Please get in touch with comments or additional info to news@engine.online