French LNG containment giant GTT has won basic design approval from classification society BV for its ballast-free LNG bunkering and feeder vessel.
This approval in principle follows two AiPs GTT and its Chinese partner Hudong-Zhonghua secured for this “Shear-Water” concept in July last year.
The majority of merchant vessels worldwide use ballast water when the bunkers are empty or partially loaded in order to maintain seaworthy conditions.
Therefore, ships carry “a considerable quantity” of ballast water every day.
GTT says even when ballast water is treated, there is a risk of transferring harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens from one area to another.
The solution developed by GTT “eliminates this risk completely,” the firm said.
In addition, removing the ballast water treatment system also reduces the energy consumption and CO2 footprint of the vessels.
The concept is based on the currently proven vessel of 18,700 cbm capacity with two membrane tanks, according to GTT.
Also, the design features a new hull shape, in a “V”, which differs from the standard square shaped mid-ship sections traditionally used for LNG carriers.
GTT said it has carried out an “exhaustive testing campaign” at the HSVA Hamburg tank test facility in connection with power-speed, maneuverability and sea keeping.
Moreover, the firm conducted a sloshing test campaign to ensure the technical feasibility of the project while the “excellent results” helped approve the concept.
GTT’s chief Philippe Berterottière said this new technological solution allows a reduction in investment and operating costs, simpler operations as well as a reduction in corrosion supporting a longer service life.
“Obtaining this approval by Bureau Veritas constitutes recognition of the ecological relevance and performance of our technological solution,” he said.
