Norway-based PASSER Marine has received approval in principle from classification society DNV for the development of a new LNG fuel tank insulation system.
The new concept features prismatic ‘type B’ LNG tanks – which according to IMO rules require a partial secondary barrier – and includes a leakage detection system capable of managing and containing fuel leaks, according to DNV.
As an increasing number of owners choose LNG-fueled vessels for deep-sea shipping, fuel tank sizes need to increase from 300-1000 cbm fuel capacity to up to 10,000-20,000 cbm which leaves less room for cargo, the classification society said.
As such, DNV sees a growing industry interest in alternative fuel tanks – known as ‘type B’. These prismatic tanks are more volume efficient than traditional cylindrical ‘type C’ tanks, DNV said.
Between 95 and 99 percent of LNG-fueled ships contain type C fuel tanks, but many newbuilds on order contain ‘type B’ specifications, it said.
“Few proven systems available”
“There are several insulation concepts under development that provide an integrated secondary barrier and leakage detection system, but there are few proven systems available on the market,” said Monika Johannessen, DNV Maritime head of department, gas carrier excellence centre.
This is only an early phase verification and PASSER Marine will now send the documentation for full approval, DNV said.
In addtion, PASSER Marine said in a separate statement it has also received AIP from Lloyds Register for the same system.
“We see a big demand in the market for IMO type B tank related to dual fuel vessels, and this two approvals is a recognition of our work to deliver the ultimate insulation solution for this applications,” the firm said.