KR approves Hyundai ECA-based Type-C tank design

Korean Register (KR) has awarded approval in principle (AiP) to HD Hyundai Mipo and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for an IMO Type-C tank design applying engineering critical assessment (ECA).

The tank design is aimed at supporting the transport of LNG, ammonia and hydrogen, which must be stored under high-pressure and cryogenic conditions.

Efficiency and safety in tank design are particularly pressing issues for small and medium-sized gas carriers and bunkering vessels.

According to the companies, the project involved applying ECA-based structural integrity assessment methods from the earliest design stage of the Type-C independent tank. The methodology is designed to predict crack propagation in metallic structures and enable structural safety analysis over the operational lifetime of the tank in service.

HD Hyundai Mipo was responsible for evaluating the structural and fatigue strength of the tank, while HD KSOE led the tank design and structural integrity assessment. KR conducted a comprehensive review of the design in accordance with its classification rules and international regulations.

HD Hyundai Mipo executive vice president Dongjin Lee said, “Through this collaboration, we have further enhanced the design competitiveness of gas carriers and bunkering vessels. By establishing an objective framework to verify the long-term reliability of tank structures, we are able to actively address the diverse needs of the market.”

HD KSOE senior vice president of the SD business unit Han-se Kim commented, “The joint development has strengthened the robustness of independent tank design and is expected to enhance competitiveness in the high-value, eco-friendly vessel market.”

KR executive vice president Yongsok Lee said, “This AiP highlights the application of ECA-based structural integrity assessment in practical tank design. It demonstrates how advanced evaluation methodologies can be applied from the earliest stages of development to ensure safety and reliability.”

The AiP was announced on 10 September at Gastech 2025 in Milan, Italy.