GTT's new LNG-fuelled VLCC design gets approval
France’s GTT has received approval in principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas for an LNG-fuelled and ammonia-ready VLCC design, it said on September 28.
This approval is part of a joint development project, started in 2021, and carried out by China Merchants Energy Shipping, TotalEnergies, Dalian Shipbuilding Industry, and Bureau Veritas.
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“This new concept of VLCC is a breakthrough innovation, with the relocation of the fuel tank below the main deck to avoid exposure to bad weather, the risk of piracy, while lowering centre of gravity of the propulsion systems,” GTT said.
The concept integrates GTT’s Mark III membrane containment technology and the LNG storage tank is compatible with liquid ammonia fuel.
The tank capacity of this new VLCC is flexible, from 9,000 to 14,000 m3. It also complies with the strength requirements for both LNG and ammonia fuels.
“As ammonia is heavier than LNG, the structure of the tank has been strengthened to support the loads induced on the vessel and the tank,” GTT said.