HHIC to build the first LNG bunkering vessel

Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction (HHIC) secured a contract for the construction of the world’s first LNG bunkering vessel from NYK of Japan.

So far, a small bunkering vessel or barge has been used to transfer LNG fuel to a certain ship. It is the first time to use an LNG bunkering vessel for ship-to-ship transfer of the fuel on the sea, according to a statement by HHIC.

The LNG-fueled vessel can save fuel expenses by 20-50%, compared to conventional oil-fueled ships. In addition, it can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as exhaust fumes and sulfur oxides.

In particular, this bunkering vessel is capable of fueling 5,000 m3 of LNG at a time without additional charging. With propellers and auxiliary propellers (two units each), it has a great maneuverability and berthing capacity. Therefore, it can transfer LNG to another ship on the sea without a separate berthing support ship, HHIC said.

The vessel’s storage tank has two IMO’s independent pressurized LNG tanks.

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Press Release, July 15, 2014; Image: HHIC