ABS Grants AIP for Technolog LNG Fuel Gas Container System

Classification society ABS has granted approval in principle (AIP) to UK’s maritime technology company Technolog for a liquified natural gas (LNG) fuel gas container system.

“LNG is an attractive option for shipowners and operators looking to comply with the 2020 Sulphur Cap, however, bunkering infrastructure is a constraint. This development from Technolog is a strategy to expand the supply chain and improve access to LNG fuel,” Patrick Janssens, ABS Vice President for Global Gas Solutions, commented.

The portable tank system, which will ultimately come in 20 and 40-foot containers, is designed to be filled at land-based LNG terminals and shipped to vessels via rail, road or cargo ship before being loaded onboard an LNG-fueled vessel. Once connected to the power supply system, it is considered part of the vessel and must comply with the IGF Code, according to ABS.

“LNG is quickly becoming the alternative fuel of choice. Working with ABS we are demonstrating the viability of our fuel gas container technology as a solution for shipowners and operators examining the feasibility of LNG as fuel for their vessels,” Christoph Rasewsky of Technolog said.

All LNG shipments must be handled in compliance with the IMDG code as well as other national rules and codes that apply to safe transportation and shipment of hazardous goods.

Earlier this week, ABS awarded AIP to Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding’s large LNG carrier with MARK III Flex membrane cargo containment system.