BV issues new LNG FSU conversion guidelines

The new notations are intended to provide the necessary guidance to develop both newbuild and conversion units and help shipowners to either avoid or to overcome potential problems in the process.

“With growing interest in floating gas terminals, working with industry stakeholders, we are providing the rule framework and guidance necessary to develop both FSRU and FSU terminals – both for newbuildings and conversions,” said Matthieu de Tugny, COO, Bureau Veritas, Marine & Offshore.

Operational flexibility

Mr de Tugny said that floating gas terminals offer operational flexibility, reduced timescales – from concept to operation and cost effectiveness, compared to onshore terminals.

Additionally, converting existing LNG carriers offers a fast route to operational availability. There are more than 20 LNG carriers presently in laid-up condition. Many of them are candidates for conversion to floating terminal applications, such as FSRU or FSU operations.

Bureau Veritas is a leading provider of specific notations, regulations and tools in gas terminal development.

It also offers a broad range of second party services including risk assessment and support, tools for sloshing analysis, mooring, CFD, hydro-structural assessments and ice/structure interaction.

Last November, Bureau Veritas published NR645, the first rules document fully dedicated to FSRU units.