ABS grants AIP to new Chinese gas carriers

The designs are for a 200,000m³ LNG carrier and a 147,000m³ very large ethane carrier (VLEC).

“ABS is proud to support the pioneering work of Hudong-Zhonghua in the design and delivery of gas carriers,” said Eric Kleess, ABS senior vice president, eastern hemisphere operations.

“In reviewing novel gas carrier designs ABS is able to draw on our extensive experience in the classification of VLECs in support the safer handling, storage and transport of gas,” he added.

The LNG carrier is designed for long-distance, large-scale LNG transportation and has enhanced cargo capacity and greater efficiency compared to conventional ships. The VLEC is a tailored designed for US – China routes, meets US Coast Guard requirements and is equipped with a dual-fuel propulsion system using ethane as the main fuel.

“Hudong-Zhonghua, with the support of ABS, has a proud record of innovation in the design and construction of gas carriers in China,” said Jin Yanzi, Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding’s vice president.

“With the granting of these AIPs by ABS, these latest designs are now set to continue that tradition,” he added.