Jiangnan Shipyard wins ABS’ approval for liquefied gas cargo containment innovations

Jiangnan Shipyard, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), has won two approvals in principles (AiPs) from classification society American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for two of its new developments – a design for an ultra large ethane carrier (ULEC) and a new insulation system.

As explained, the ULEC design is the first equipped with the next-generation BrilliancE II Type-B cargo containment system, a modern cryogenic liquefied gas containment system designed to optimize ship performance.

The second approval was issued for Jiangnan’s patented insulation system, PnFCOMBi, which can be used for type B tank low-temperature containment systems up to -163 degrees Celsius.

“With ethane demand continuing to rise, the ultra large carrier design promises to support the market for many years, and the new insulation system is another innovative technology from Jiangnan supporting the overall safety of gas carriers,” said John McDonald, ABS President and COO.

“The groundbreaking BrilliancE® II Type-B cargo containment system represents a significant leap forward in gas carriers. Its light-weight features make a three-tank configuration feasible without any concern regarding sloshing and structural resonance. It offers numerous advantages, including exceptional safety, better space efficiency and parallel construction of tank and hull. We are confident that ULEC, with its advanced technology, will deliver significant advantages and value to shipowners,” added Keyi Hu, Jiangnan Chief of Corporate Technology.

In 2019, ABS awarded AIP to Jiangnan for its first BrilliancE type B cargo containment system. This original system was first seen in the ABS-classed VLEC Pacific Ineos Belstaff, which was launched at Jiangnan Shipyard in 2021.

Then in 2023, ABS issued AiP to Jiangnan for its BrilliancE II IMO Type B cryogenic liquified gas containment system for VLECs.