South Korean Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) has delivered to compatriot Ilshin Logistics the world’s first LNG-fueled bulk carrier under the dual-class of Lloyd’s Register (LR) and Korean Register. The 50,000 dwt bulk carrier has been verified to be in compliance with the IGF Code.
The vessel is the result of a collaboration project, announced in July 2016, to develop the first in a new generation of environmentally-friendly LNG-fueled bulk carriers.
As informed, the ship has a Type ‘C’ LNG fuel tank with a capacity of 500m³, made of austenitic high manganese steel and located on the aft mooring deck. The material, newly developed by POSCO, has a high manganese content (approximately 26%) and is specially designed for cryogenic LNG and liquefied gas storage applications.
The properties and characteristics of the high-manganese steel, as well as the required welding technology and fuel tank design, have been proven suitable for cryogenics by LR, which provided certification of High Manganese Steel Welding Consumables, Welding Procedure Approval and Material Approval, in July 2017.
JT Lee, LR’s Chief Representative & Marine Manager for Korea, commented:
“I am very excited and proud to see the successful delivery of the world’s first 50,000 dwt LNG-fueled bulk carrier with contribution from LR for the certification and approval…The successful delivery of the vessel should be a significant indication to the market of a reasonable and solid solution to the preparation for emission compliant eco-friendly designs.”
