Classification society, ABS, announced that it awarded Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding an Approval in Principle (AIP), for its design of a new very large ethane carrier (VLEC) concept.
The new VLEC will incorporate a specialized membrane cargo containment system, which will carry liquid gas cargoes like ethane and propane.
The vessel was designed with a minimum cargo temperature of -94℃, supporting a low cargo boil-off rate.
Other features of the VLEC include the following:
- A multiple cargo re-liquefaction lines to liquefy vapor gas,
- A powerful cargo handling system that maintains a stable tank pressure
- A Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that supports compliance with MARPOL Tier III and USCG requirements for non-US Flag vessels operating in the U.S.
“As demand for different types of liquefied gases increases, concepts like this will expand the infrastructure and enable more efficient transportation to get products to market. Awarding Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding this AIP is another example of ABS’s commitment to promoting concepts that drive safer and more sustainable shipping,” ABS Vice President for Global Gas Solutions Patrick Janssens, explained.
