GTT LNG Bunker Barge Gets DNV GL Approval

GTT North America, a U.S. unit of France’s GTT, said it has received an approval in principle from DNV GL for the design of a 2,200 cubic meter LNG bunker barge.

The design incorporates GTT’s membrane Cargo Containment System (CCS), which is utilized in roughly 70% of the global LNG carrier fleet and nearly 90% of LNG carrier projects on order, GTT said in a statement.

“This Approval in Principle from DNV GL, the world’s largest class society and well known developer of technology enabling LNG as fuel for short sea shipping, is a major step forward in demonstrating the suitability of the GTT membrane systems for LNG storage and transportation within North American waters. The robust and highly competitive GTT solutions for the North American market complement the on-going price quotation with local shipyards,” said Aziz Bamik, GTT NA General Manager.

“The GTT membrane system provides more choice than just the Type C tank containment systems. It allows for better volumetric efficiency, which is a concern for ship types where sacrificing revenue-earning space for bunker is often a show-stopper,” commented Tony Teo, DNV GL’s Houston-based technology and business director.

The CCS selected for the barge is GTT’s Mark III Flex system, an “enhancement” of the Mark III system that allows for” improved” thermal and structural performance of the CCS, GTT added.

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Press Release, June 18, 2014; Image: GTT