LNG-fuelled Panamax Bulk Carrier by GSC gets green light

ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the design of an ammonia-ready LNG-fuelled Panamax bulk carrier. Particularly, developed by the Planning and Design Centre for Greener Ships (GSC).

Concept

Ammonia will expectedly serve as ship fuel for decarbonization since it does not emit CO2 when burned. Meanwhile, taking adequate safety measures is impartial due to its characteristics of being toxic to humans and corrosive against materials. Thus, ClassNK has worked on the development of standards and certification.

In 2021, ClassNK published its “Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels” to minimize the risks related to ammonia-fuelled ships. Addressed to the ships, crew, and environment by stipulating requirements for installation, controls, and safety devices. ClassNK subsequently issued an AiP for the design of an ammonia-fuelled Panamax bulk carrier developed by GSC in January 2022.

Development

GSC describes the newly developed design as LNG-fuelled but ready as ammonia-fuelled. For the short-term aiming lower CO2 emissions, the design will operate on LNG fuel. For the long-term aiming toward zero CO2 emissions, there are two scenarios;

1. Converted to ammonia fuelled propulsion systems
2. Keep the systems but will switch its fuel from LNG to liquified carbon-neutral methane.

The ship is developed as a flexible and efficient solution to endure the unpredictable period of fuel transition.

Note that, the 80,400DWT bulker will measure 228.9 m in length a 32 m beam and have a service speed of 14.2 knots.

Approval

ClassNK reviewed the design as an LNG-fuelled ship based on its Rule Part GF incorporating IGF Code. Additionally, as an ammonia-ready ship, reviewing based on Concept Design category of its “Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels” Annex 1 verifying the conformity to their requirements as an LNG-fuelled ship and a future ammonia-fuelled ship, ClassNK has issued an AiP as an ammonia-ready LNG-fuelled ship.

Further Vision

ClassNK will continue participating in innovative initiatives related to decarbonization. By incorporating the expertise obtained from the collaborative work with frontrunners into its rules and guidelines, ClassNK will support the decarbonization of the entire industry.

Source: ClassNK

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