ABS, a leading provider of maritime shipping and offshore classification services, has granted Approval in Principle (AIP) to a new gas containment system concept designed in Norway by Brevik Technology.
The containment system uses a series of independent, cylindrical IMO Type-B tanks and for the AIP was designed for application in a gas carrier of 30,000 cbm.
In granting the AIP, ABS assessed the concept against the requirements of the International Gas Code, ABS Rules and the ABS Guide for Liquefied Gas Carriers with Independent Tanks. Since the tank design is a novel concept, a HAZID study was also performed.
The AIP marks the initial approval for the tank concept and could be followed by a general design approval upon completion of a vessel’s detailed design. Final approval would involve a vessel-specific shipbuilding project.
The tank design was created by Brevik Technology, a VARD affiliate company, with the intention of lowering the cost of construction for LNG and LPG carriers while providing a solution for the small-scale transport of gas.
Brevik is in discussions with shipowners and yards for a vessel design concept including the Type B tank, which it estimates could be between 15 to 20 percent less expensive to construct than a membrane containment system for a ship of this size.
ABS is a pioneer in the safe transport and handling of gas and has extensive experience with the full scope of gas-related assets. ABS classed the largest LNG carriers in service, including the world’s first LNG carrier, the Methane Pioneer, in 1959. In 2013 ABS formed the Global Gas Solutions Team in response to the rapid escalation in the number of gas-related projects, including LNG and LPG transportation and the growing use of LNG and LPG fuel.
About ABS
Founded in 1862, ABS is a leading international classification society devoted to promoting the security of life and property and preserving the natural environment through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine and offshore assets.