Chinese shipbuilder gets AiP for giant gas carriers

Classification society ABS has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to two new gas carrier designs from China’s Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding: a 200,000 cu.m LNG carrier and a 147,000 cu.m Very Large Ethane Carrier (VLEC).

The LNG carrier is designed for long-distance, large-scale LNG transportation, featuring enhanced cargo capacity and greater efficiency compared to conventional ships.

The VLEC is a tailored design for U.S. – China routes that can meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements and is equipped with a dual-fuel propulsion system using ethane as the main fuel, which can meet emission requirements.

“ABS is proud to support the pioneering work of Hudong Zhonghua in the design and delivery of gas carriers. By awarding these AIPS, ABS is demonstrating its commitment to promoting innovative concepts which meet market needs and drive safer and more sustainable shipping,” said Eric Kleess, ABS Senior Vice President, Eastern Hemisphere Operations. “In reviewing novel gas carrier designs, ABS is able to draw on our extensive experience in the classification of VLECs in supporting the safer handling, storage and transport of gas.”

“Hudong Zhonghua, with the support of ABS, has a proud record of innovation in the design and construction of gas carriers in China,” said Jin Yanzi, Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding’s Vice President. “With the granting of these AIPs by ABS, these latest designs are now set to continue that tradition.”