LR has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s biggest shipbuilding group, China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), to jointly study, research and develop marine equipment and technology, LR said in its release.
The MoU, which has been signed at the start of Marintec 2019, will include research into zero-emission vessel projects, trends and applications for meeting the IMO’s 2050 decarbonisation target. The partners will jointly establish a Technology Research Centre in Shanghai to address the challenges of new regulation, whilst also leading the development and innovation of smart technologies within the global marine and offshore industries.
Additionally, LR and CSSC have agreed to hold a biennial ‘Global Shipping Forum’ that will coincide with Marintec, to promote discussion around key issues affecting the maritime industry.
The LR and CSSC research collaboration will look at the use of blockchain and digital twin technologies and will evaluate ship propulsion systems, including various clean energy sources and their certification. FPSO, FLNG, FSRU design concepts will also be assessed.
The partners will also exchange training on a range of topics including cyber security, cruise ship design and the application of new energy sources for ships such as hydrogen fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries. LR will also offer technical support and training for gas carriers including ships for the carriage of LPG, LNG, ethane, hydrogen and ammonia.