French LNG containment giant GTT has secured approval from classification society Lloyd’s Register for a digital solution aimed at optimizing LNG membrane tank maintenance.
GTT said on Thursday it had secured approval in principle (AiP) from LR for the use of the digital solution for sloshing activity assessment.
According to GTT, the firm completed the approval project in close collaboration with Shell International Trading and Shipping Company (STASCO) whose operational experience supported the validation of the use cases.
This digital solution is based on GTT’s “sloshing virtual sensor” technology, using a tank digital twin, also designed by GTT, and the real-time operational data of the floating units (FSRU, FLNG and LNG carriers) to monitor the evolution of critical parameters with regards to tank integrity, it said.
Moreover, combined with an appropriate risk analysis, the solution can support alternative survey plans aimed at optimizing tank maintenance by extending the period between tank surveys while complying with strict safety standards, GTT said.
The Paris-based firm said this would translate into increased operational flexibility as well as “substantial cost savings” for shipowners and charterers.
“Artificial intelligence combined with GTT’s LNG core expertise has made it possible to develop this unique solution to help shipowners and charterers reduce their operational costs without compromising vessel safety,” Philippe Berterottière, chairman and CEO of GTT, said.
Also, Berterottière said that GTT believes that “this solution has the potential to become an industry standard in the years to come.”