In partnership with China’s Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, GTT has received approval in principle (AiP) from China Classification Society (CCS) and DNV for the ‘Ballast-Water-Free’ LNG bunker and feeder vessel concept
The French cryogenic engineering company reported receiving AiPs recognising the compliance of this ballast water-free vessel design with the rules and codes relating to oceangoing vessels, their construction and equipment.
The importance of such a design fitted with GTT’s LNG cargo membrane system reduces capex and opex, and mitigates environmental risk.
Most of the global fleet uses ballast water when the bunkers are empty or partially loaded to maintain seaworthy conditions, requiring a considerable quantity of ballast water to be carried by ships every day. Even when ballast water is treated, there is a risk of transferring harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens from one area to another. The ballast water-free vessel design developed by GTT eliminates this risk. Additionally, removing the ballast water treatment system reduces the energy consumption and CO2 footprint of the vessel.
A ballast-free vessel offers advantages in terms of capex and opex cost, simplifies vessel operation, reduces corrosion and prolongs vessel lifetime, said GTT. Tank testing was conducted on the hull to demonstrate sailing and seakeeping capabilities of the design.
Calling it a “major technological innovation”, GTT chairman and chief executive Philippe Berterottière, said the approvals of CCS and DNV will allow GTT to offer shipowners and charterers “a high-value technology solution.”
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