Knutsen’s New LNG Vessel Getting Wärtsilä Equipment

Technology group Wärtsilä has been contracted to deliver integrated propulsion and cargo handling systems for Knutsen OAS Shipping’s new LNG vessel which is currently under construction at the Hyundai Mipo Dockyard (HMD) in South Korea.

Wärtsilä’s equipment, which will enable interfacing between the vessel’s propulsion, onboard auxiliary power generation, and cargo control processes, is scheduled for delivery in 2020.

The new 30,000 cbm will be operated by Knutsen and chartered to Italy’s Edison under a 12-year long term charter, once it is delivered in 2021. It will be used to supply coastal LNG deposit terminals in Italy.

Wärtsilä said the order was booked in January 2019, adding that the contract includes an option for an additional sister unit.

The cargo handling system includes the fuel supply, cargo control system, boil-off gas (BOG) reliquefaction, and safety management. According to the company, the vessel will be one of the first LNG carriers in its size to be equipped with space-saving C-type bi-lobe cargo tanks.

“We have worked closely for many years with Knutsen OAS Shipping, a globally recognized LNG sector player, and we are proud to be partnering them once again as the single-source supplier for ensuring the efficiency of this innovative vessel,” said Timo Koponen, Vice President, Processing Solutions, Wärtsilä Marine.

Wärtsilä is also to supply three 20DF dual-fuel auxiliary engines that power the board net, thrusters, cargo control system, and re-liquefaction module.