ClassNK has awarded an Approval in Principle (AiP) for a large 50,000m³ liquefied CO₂ (LCO₂) carrier, jointly developed by Dalian Shipbuilding Offshore Co., Ltd. (DSOC) and Nantong Offshore Design & Research Institute Co., Ltd. (NODRI).
This certification confirms that the vessel design meets the required regulatory and safety standards, marking an important step toward advancing decarbonization in maritime transport.
Understanding Approval in Principle (AiP)
An Approval in Principle (AiP) is granted at the initial design stage or before a specific vessel project is finalized. It ensures that the design complies with existing international conventions and ship classification rules. This process helps prevent costly rework later, shortens examination time during class registration, and strengthens the technical credibility of the design for external stakeholders.
ClassNK’s Review and Certification
For this project, ClassNK reviewed the vessel’s design based on its Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships, particularly Part N, which incorporates the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code). The IGC Code governs ships transporting liquefied gases such as LCO₂ and LNG. After confirming that the design met all prescribed requirements, ClassNK granted the AiP.
The issuance of AiP for the 50,000m³ liquefied CO₂ carrier demonstrates the feasibility and safety of the vessel design while supporting global decarbonization initiatives. By providing such certifications, ClassNK continues to play a pivotal role in promoting innovative and sustainable solutions within the shipping industry.
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Source: ClassNK
