French LNG containment giant GTT has received basic design approval from Japanese classification society, ClassNK, for a new solution applicable to LNG-fueled PCTCs and cruise ships.
This innovation is an upgrade of the Mark III system with a design pressure up to 2 bar gauge (barg) for LNG fuel applications, GTT said in a statement on Thursday.
“This upgrade is particularly useful for PCTCs and cruise ships offering improved pressure holding capabilities and increased operational flexibility especially during bunkering operations,” it said.
The approval in principle from ClassNK confirms that this new tank solution complies with the applicable safety regulations, according to GTT.
GTT and ClassNK have studied, in particular, maximum tank dimensions, tank structural reinforcements, tank operating pressure during in-service operations as well as aspects related to potential emergency situations.
“This approval once again highlights the constant evolution of our technologies to meet the demands of the industry,” Philippe Berterottière, chairman and CEO of GTT said.
“Thanks to our innovation efforts, GTT membrane solutions are now applicable to a wider spectrum of LNG-fueled vessels, thus contributing increasingly to make the shipping industry greener,” he said.
GTT’s LNG fuel orders are all related to containerships, according to its order book.
The company has this year won several orders for LNG-fueled containerships, including recent deals for EPS and Pacific International Lines.