Krylov Center proposes using LNG bunkering tankers able to carry trailers

Krylov State Research Center proposes using LNG bunkering tankers able to carry trailers as mobile LNG tanks, IAA PortNews journalist cites Anton Lutskevich, leading engineer at Krylov Center, as saying at the seminar “New MARPOL Regulations” being held in Saint-Petersburg.

According to him, the Center has developed a design of a ro-ro vessel able to carry 14 trailers and bunker vessels with both LNG and oil products.

The expert says that using of an uncrewed non-self-propelled barge fitted for carrying trailers and bunkering of vessels with LNG would be even cheaper. It could be towed by an ordinary tug-turner or by tug/barge towing arrangement for off-harbour operations or operation in ice conditions.

Anton Lutskevich believes that such vessels with trailers could be useful at ports with low demand for LNG where LNG powered vessels do not call frequently.

According to the expert, with LNG which can be kept on a bunkering vessel for no more than 2 weeks and with irregular demand for gas the use of combined bunkering vessels with trailers could be an adequate solution of the problem of vessel idleness.