LNG bunker vessel simulator underpins rising demand for ‘hands-on’ training

The simulator will support the rising demand for ‘hands-on’ training for personnel operating LNG bunkering services.

“As the global demand for LNG fuel for marine applications increases, the number of LNG bunkering vessels serving this demand is also increasing,” said Kasi Group general manager Captain Bo Caspersen. “To achieve best operating practices, safety and efficiency, first-rate crew training is essential. The Wärtsilä simulator enables this,” added Captain Caspersen.

The demand for training services for LNG bunkering vessel simulators has been rising since 2017, when a single LNG bunkering vessel was in service. By the end of 2018, this number had increased to nine ships, and it is forecast that a further 30 of these vessels will be delivered during the coming five years. There are currently 50 LNG bunker vessels in operation, decided or under discussion worldwide, according to class society DNV GL. MISC Bhd, the shipping arm of Malaysia energy company Petronas, has partnered with Avenir LNG to charter an LNG bunker vessel with a 7,500 m³ capacity, which will enter service in 2020.

Petronas is one of the world’s largest producers of LNG.

Captain Caspersen said Kasi Group was “familiar with Wärtsilä’s competence in simulator systems having used them in our research and development programme for some 10 years. We therefore had no hesitation in approaching Wärtsilä again when we were asked to provide training.”

Under the contract, Wärtsilä scope of supply for its delivery of a TechSim LCHS Network Class simulator to Kasi Group includes five workstations, namely one for the instructor and four for the trainees.

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