KLAW LNG and Houlder Partner on LNG Bunker Transfer Solutions

Houlder and KLAW LNG will work to develop new LNG bunker and transfer solutions.

Houlder Limited (Houlder) and KLAW LNG, through Signum Technology Limited (Signum), have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the development of new liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunker and transfer solutions, LNG Industry reports.

The cooperation is said to come in response to growing demand within the small to mid-scale LNG market, and is intended to see the two companies work together to provide safe and efficient Ship-to-Ship and Shore-to-Ship transfer products, called "Hybrid" LNG Transfer solutions.

The partnership is said to be set to develop flexible hoses for LNG delivery, which provide a safe and efficient alternative to large, rigid fixed arm solutions used for the transfer of LNG.

Further, in addition to the development of any new equipment, the partnership is set to offer clients a full set of global services for vessel installation and integration, site assistance and support, and crew training.

SGMF Working Group

Houlder also says it held the 6th Society of Gas as Marine Fuel (SGMF) working group "LNG Bunkering: Functional Design Requirements" met at Houlder's London headquarters on January 11 and 12 to discuss the standardisation of bunkering manifold connectors and safety requirements for bunkering controls.

"Consistency in small to mid-scale bunkering operations is key to championing the wider use of LNG as a cost-effective fuel for future shipping," said Houlder.

Following the two day session, Houlder says there was a "genuine commitment" to invest both resources and time into further progressing the standardisation.

"This should give everyone involved confidence that the outlook for small to mid-scale LNG operations and wider use of LNG as a fuel look positive for 2017 and beyond," added the company.

Gianpaolo Benedetti, Engineering Project Manager at Houlder, who hosted the event, says the working group's real value is to enable bunkering equipment suppliers to engage with one another, as well as end users.

"The future of LNG as an every-day marine fuel is dependent on the spirit of collaboration fostered by the SGMF. We're delighted to be part of it," said Benedetti.