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“While a few membrane LNG carriers in the 20,000 m3 capacity range were built in the 1990s, this is the first new design to be introduced since that time,” says ABS Vice President, LNG, Patrick Janssens. The reason for this innovation, Janssens says, is the development of new markets that have led to a keen interest in smaller LNG carrier designs. “Potential markets for these smaller carriers include inland transportation, bunkering, feeder trade, archipelago trade in regions such as the Caribbean and coastal distribution,” Janssens says, noting, “this will help balance regional demand, particularly in China, where several companies are evaluating LNG carriers in the range of 20-30,000 m3 for regional redistribution from large satellite terminals.” According to Philippe Berterottière, GTT Chairman and CEO, this state-of-the-art membrane vessel combines high cargo capacity with flexibility. “Proposing this innovative and efficient design affirms GTT’s capability to be a key player over the full range of LNG carrier sizes,” he says. “We are very happy with the technological partnership we had with ABS on this project.” ABS recognizes that working with industry to advance technology is critical. “As new markets emerge, ABS is working with the industry to develop and employ the technologies that will allow access,” says ABS President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki. “To fill the vital role of Class of the Future, ABS has to provide the services the industry needs to make adjustments as operating conditions and markets change. Granting AIP to new technologies is an essential component of that future.” About ABS Founded in 1862, ABS is a leading international classification society devoted to promoting the security of life, property and the marine environment through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities. About GTT With more than 70 percent of the world LNG carrier fleet equipped with GTT membrane technologies, and with 50 years of experience, GTT is a world leader in the design of membrane containment systems for the maritime transportation and storage of LNG. The GTT systems have become the technology of choice for new LNG carrier orders and the GTT market share is constantly increasing. ABS press release |
ABS Grants AIP for Small LNG Carrier Design