Deltamarin and GTT have recently received Approval in Principle (AiP) from the respected classification society ClassNK for their new design of a 12,500 m3 LNG dual fuel Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC). This AiP was granted by ClassNK on March 1, 2023.
The collaborative effort between Deltamarin, GTT and ClassNK aims to develop an energy-efficient VLCC that operates on LNG fuel, meeting both current and future environmental targets. To achieve this, the vessel features GTT Membrane-type LNG tanks with LNG fuel stored at atmospheric pressure, which is a pre-approved and highly sustainable clean-fuel technology.
In close partnership with GTT, Deltamarin has conducted comprehensive research on various arrangements and solutions for positioning the LNG tank on the vessel, with the aim of maximizing the ship's energy efficiency. The team utilized the latest simulation tools to take a holistic approach that not only leverages LNG as fuel, but also provides optimal efficiency with low emissions for this ship class.
The approval from ClassNK proves that the onboard integration of a membrane fuel tank solution is technically feasible on an LNG-fueled tanker and that it meets all safety regulations. The new design is compliant with the environmental regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) until 2030, offering a highly sustainable solution that reduces CO2 emissions by at least 20% compared to a traditional oil-fueled tanker. Additionally, it provides greater autonomy without reducing cargo volume.
The joint development between GTT and Deltamarin has introduced an innovative approach to overall efficiency, optimized for specific sea routes by taking into account hull form, propulsion, LNG containment system, and power plant configuration.