ABS has announced that it has joined forces with Arista Shipping, Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT), Deltamarin and Wärtsilä in ‘Project Forward’ – a joint development project (JDP) to help bring LNG-fuelled vessels into shipping’s mainstream. Specifically, the project members will develop an LNG-fuelled Kamsarmax dry bulk carrier concept.
The vessel will be the first of its kind suitable for global services fuelled by LNG in compliance with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index 2025 standards, NOx Tier III and Marpol Annex VI Sox emission levels.
Patrick Janssens, the ABS Vice President of Global Gas Solutions, said: “The long-term potential for LNG as a marine fuel is tremendous.
“We see the near-term opportunities for larger vessels on fixed and known trade routes, but more opportunities will emerge as concepts mature and bunkering infrastructure expands. Environmental stewardship will continue to be a concern, and owners will be evaluating alternative fuel choices.”
Alexander P. Panagopulos, the Arista Shipping Principle, added: “Project Forward represents a milestone for the shipping industry in bringing to the market a practical, achievable design for what are the workhorses of the shipping fleet.
“Our mission is to develop the next generation of energy efficient and environmental friendly dry bulk cargo ships to be sustainable worldwide beyond 2030. It marks a number of ‘firsts’ and draws together the experience of a team of leaders in their field to make LNG powered shipping a reality on the high seas.”
There are a number of challenges to overcome in the vessel design. For instance, the ship needs to be able to carry 2500 m3 of LNG, and yet space is limited and cargo space is at a premium.
The vessel is based on a Deltamarin B.Delta 82 design and will utilise a GTT membrane LNG fuel tank. It will also feature a Wärtsilä four-stroke, medium speed engine without auxiliary generators. ABS will provide Approval in Principle (AiP).
Edited from press release by David Rowlands