Classed by GL
In 2011, Tarbit Shipping, in collaboration with Germanischer Lloyd (GL) and Wärtsilä, initiated and executed a pioneering ship conversion process: the product tanker “Bit Viking” was converted from a conventional oil-burning vessel into a dual-fuel one that can burn either fuel oil or gas. The “Bit Viking” is thus the world’s first vessel to be converted to run on Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) while in service.
GL was chosen for the classification part of the “Bit Viking” conversion due to its technical expertise.
There were significant technical challenges in steering the conversion process. Among the key considerations were the correct application of class rules for safe construction, and ensuring that the equipment manufacturers correctly implemented the class requirements.
In 2010, GL already published guidelines for using gas as ship fuel which support technical guidance on the application of the relevant IMO regulations.
