GTT, in collaboration with an Asian shipyard, announces the first implementation of a 1 barg tank design pressure for a recently ordered series of twelve LNG-fuelled container vessels fitted with GTT’s Mark III Flex technology.
This application establishes a new standard for the use of GTT’s Mark III Flex technology in LNG fuel tanks, allowing operations at a pressure of up to 1 barg, compared to the current maximum of 0.7 barg. Having already implemented a 2 barg design pressure on smaller capacity fuel tanks already in operation, this is the first time a higher design pressure level will be implemented on larger capacity tanks (>3.000 m3), providing significant advantages for ship-owners, including:
− Increased pressure holding time: The 1 barg design pressure enhances LNG tank performance by offering very large pressure operational range, thus improving holding time and avoiding unnecessary gas burning during periods of low activity.
− Bunkering LNG with warmer temperatures: This technology facilitates the bunkering of LNG at higher temperatures, enabling vessels to source fuel from a wider range of suppliers, including those with higher pressure, warmer LNG.
This innovation will enable LNG-powered vessels to comply with upcoming port regulations on cold ironing at the quayside, such as the FuelEU Maritime initiative2. Thanks to the very low boil-off rate of Mark III Flex technology and the increased holding time of the “1 barg” design, ship-owners will be able to halt LNG consumption and rely exclusively on shore-side electricity. This will allow them to enhance their environmental performance and optimize their LNG consumption while adhering to new carbon intensity standards.
Jean-Baptiste Choimet, CEO of GTT, stated: “This technological advancement reflects our on-going commitment to providing practical solutions that meet the evolving requirements of the maritime industry. By introducing the 1 barg tank design pressure, we aim to enhance the operational capabilities of large LNG fuel tanks fitted with GTT’s Mark III technology and provide ship-owners with the flexibility required to adapt to regulatory changes.”