Chinese yard to develop new LNG bunkering vessel

China's Dalian Shipbuilding Offshore (DSOC) and Zhongnen Fuel Injection Technology have entered into an agreement to jointly develop a new LNG bunkering vessel.

The completed ship will have an LOA of 138 metres, a moulded beam of 24.8 metres, a draught of 7.2 metres, a total cargo capacity of 20,000 cubic metres, and an advanced membrane-type cargo containment system. DSOC said the vessel will be the first bunkering ship in China to be fitted with the latter system.

Azimuthing thrusters will be fitted to ensure manoeuvrability in compliance with LNG bunkering requirements at a number of ports worldwide. Other key systems will include those for methane slip control and for carbon capture.

The vessel may be configured in the future to be used for ammonia bunkering in addition to LNG bunkering.

In addition to bunkering, the vessel will also be capable of providing other services such as inerting, gas testing, and cold tank pre-treatment.

The vessel will be built in compliance with China Classification Society rules.