ClassNK Approves Large Liquefied CO2 Carrier Design Concept

ClassNK has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) for a design concept of large liquefied CO2 carriers, developed collaboratively by major industry players. As the demand for CO2 transport rises alongside Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) initiatives, this AiP marks a significant step in meeting that need through standardized hull designs, reports ClassNK.

Standardizing Hull Designs for Expanding CO2 Transport

With CCS projects growing worldwide, the need for liquefied CO2 carriers is expected to increase. The AiP by ClassNK helps move towards standardizing these vessels, ensuring there are enough ships to transport CO2 from capture to storage sites.

Safety Assessments Using Advanced Techniques

The approval includes a tank safety assessment based on Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA), a method that evaluates defects in welds to determine potential issues during a vessel’s lifespan. This process omits post-weld heat treatment (PWHT), which can be a bottleneck in manufacturing.

ClassNK’s Role in Decarbonization Initiatives

ClassNK plays a key role in supporting decarbonization efforts by offering safety assessments in line with international codes. Through such approvals, the organization contributes to the advancement of safer and more efficient CO2 transport technologies.