French LNG containment specialist GTT and Chinese shipbuilder Hudong-Zhonghua have received a double approval in principle for their “ballast-water-free” LNG bunkering and feeder vessel concept.
China Classification Society (CCS) and DNV granted the approvals, according to a GTT statement on Thursday.
The received AiPs recognize the compliance of this “ballast-water-free” vessel design with the rules and codes relating to ocean-going vessels, their construction and equipment.
Moreover, the design fitted with GTT’s membrane system “enables the construction of more economical and environmentally friendly vessels,” the firm said.
The majority of merchant vessels worldwide uses ballast water when the bunkers are empty or partially loaded in order to maintain seaworthy conditions.
Therefore, ships carry “a considerable quantity of ballast water every day.”
GTT says even when ballast water is treated, there is a risk of transferring harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens from one area to another.
The solution developed by GTT “eliminates this risk completely,” the statement said.
In addition, removing the ballast water treatment system also reduces the energy consumption and CO2 footprint of the vessels.
A ballast-free vessel also offers advantages in terms of investment and operational cost, simplification of vessel operation, reduction of corrosion and prolongation of lifetime, the Paris-based firm said.
“An extensive test campaign in the hull test tank has demonstrated the good sailing and seakeeping capabilities of the design,” it said.