South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean has come up with a design for a zero-emission LNG carrier that features a new cargo containment system.
Unveiling its new baby at its LNG carrier User Forum at Gastech 2024 in Houston for over 100 representatives from shipping companies and class societies, Hanwha showcased its next-generation zero-emission LNG carrier, the “Ocean 1”.
The gas carrier is designed with an ammonia gas turbine-based electric propulsion system, enabling zero-emission operation without fossil fuels.
It can also operate on a dual-fuel system using LNG, widely used in ships, with the flexibility to incorporate fuel cells and batteries in the future.
One key feature attendees were talking about was Hanwha’s plan to use a high manganese steel cargo tank built to independent type-B designs, which the yard is labelling as MCTIB.
Hanwha has already applied this material and tank design to the bunker tanks on the LNG-dual-fuelled VLCC and container ship newbuildings.
“MCTIB as a cargo tank is expected to significantly reduce boil-off gas, thereby improving transportation efficiency,” the shipbuilder said.
Attendees eagerly discussed and compared the boil-off rate of the new design against those on offer from systems designed by established membrane-type provider GTT.
Hanwha said the design marks the first unveiling of the specific technologies behind “The First Fossil-Free Ship on the Water” — Hanwha’s blueprint for developing a carbon-free vessel powered by alternative fuels, as announced at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, in January.
During the meeting, Hanwha also shared its vision for the commercialisation of autonomous ships, including advancements in control systems, navigation systems, smart ship solutions and digital twin technologies.
The shipbuilder also spoke about collaborations with Hanwha affiliates — Hanwha Engine and Hanwha Power Systems — to create synergies.
Hanwha Engine presented a main engine monitoring solution with features that detect abnormalities and provide information on maintenance cycles for major parts.
Group company Hanwha Power Systems introduced an eco-friendly solution to replace fossil fuel engines on existing ships with ammonia gas turbines.
“The zero-emission gas carrier unveiled at this forum is an innovative green solution that will lead the industry,” said a Hanwha Ocean spokesperson.
“We will continue to strengthen collaboration with Hanwha affiliates and solidify our position as a global maritime solutions provider leading the decarbonisation of the seas.”
