DNV GL and DSME Unveil "Innovative" and Efficient LNG Carrier

DNV GL and DSME have partnered to develop an "innovative" and efficient LNG carrier. Image: DNV GL

DNV GL Wednesday announced that, along with Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co., Ltd (DSME), it presented the results of a joint development project (JDP) for an "innovative" and efficient LNG carrier at Gastech 2017 conference in Tokyo, Japan.

Utilising liquefied natural gas (LNG) as the primary fuel, the vessel design uses direct-coupled, two-stroke dual-fuel main engines and dual-fuel auxiliary engines, and features a combined gas turbine, electric and steam (COGES) propulsion system for the optimised machinery.

"An important consideration for the design is the shift towards lower, more energy-efficient transit speeds. The hull and propulsion system have been optimised for three different operating profiles on a standard transpacific route (19.5, 16 and 12 knots)," explains DNV GL, noting that calm water optimisation provided gains of 6 percent, 2 percent, and 5 percent over the reference design at each of the three respective operating profiles.

DNV GL explains that, for the portion of the boil-off gas used as LNG fuel a "High Manganese Steel Cargo Tank Independent Type B" was selected, and was put through a closed mock-up testing using liquid nitrogen (LN2).

"The project focused on delivering a design which an owner can take straight to the yard and is ready for upcoming market trends and incoming regulations, with an optimal size, hull form, and machinery and electrical systems," Johan Petter Tutturen, Business Director Gas Carriers at DNV GL – Maritime.

As Ship & Bunker reported yesterday, DNV GL and Veritas Petroleum Services (VPS) are set to work together develop test procedures for quality testing of LNG bunkers.