HHI’s LPG-Fueled VLGC Design Approved

Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) has received an Approval in Principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register (LR) during Gastech for a very large gas carrier (VLGC) design capable of using LPG as fuel.

This development was the result of collaboration between HHI, Hyundai Global Service (HGS) and LR.

As explained, LPG has major advantages over marine diesel oil (MDO) and high sulphur oil (HFO) when a VLGC utilises the LPG cargo onboard as a fuel.

“However, safety issues need to be thoroughly examined particularly in relation to potential leaks of LPG in a confined space and the implications for ventilation. It is critical when considering the system design that, in the event of a leak from the fuel system any leaked LPG is prevented from collecting inside the vessel, especially the confined space within the engine room considering the ‘heavier than air’ property of LPG,” LR said.

The AiP opens up the way for VLGC operators, who, like the rest of the industry, face the challenge of reducing GHG emissions.

“We have focused on developing the safe design for LPG-fueled propulsion system. We are pleased to introduce the reliable design of VLGC with LPG burning system in the market for new building and also conversion vessels so that VLGC players can have environmentally-friendly vessels and maximize their benefits using their cargo carried onboard the vessels,” Kisun Chung, Deputy COO in Group Ship/Offshore Marketing of HHI and CEO in Hyundai Global Service, said.

MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES) also participated in the project as an engine designer. The company recently launched its latest two-stroke engine type, a dual-fuel MAN B&W ME-LGIP engine designed for LPG running. MAN B&W ME-LGIP engines are designed for dual-fuel operation with LPG as a low-flashpoint fuel.

“In the future it will be difficult for some ship types to meet emission requirements without using gas as fuel, such as ethane, LNG and LPG. By using gas as fuel there is the potential to achieve 20% more power,” René Sejer Laursen, ME-GI/LGI Promotion Manager of MAN Energy Solutions, noted.