GTT has achieved a significant milestone with the Approval in Principle (AiP) granted by DNV for its 1 barg membrane tank design, tailored for LNG dual-fuel vessels.
This development marks an evolution in the company’s Mark III technology, previously approved for 2 barg pressure on smaller-capacity tanks.
The new design not only enhances operational flexibility but also aligns with upcoming environmental regulations, supporting a more sustainable maritime future.
Key Operational Benefits of the 1 barg Design
The new 1 barg design provides several performance advantages to shipowners:
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Extended pressure-holding time: The increased design pressure delays the tank from reaching its maximum internal pressure, significantly reducing the need to burn boil-off gas during low engine load conditions.
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Warmer-temperature bunkering: LNG can be loaded at higher temperatures, allowing ship operators to access a broader and more cost-effective supply chain.
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Cold-ironing compliance: The tanks support compliance with future cold-ironing mandates, such as those under the AFIR directive, by maintaining integrity even when engines are off at port, optimizing LNG use and reducing emissions
Regulatory and Safety Assurance from DNV
DNV’s AiP confirms that the 1 barg solution provides safety equivalence to conventional atmospheric-pressure LNG tanks. The approval is based on a comprehensive technical evaluation of several systems, including:
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Containment integrity
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Fuel gas handling mechanisms
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Tank dome structures
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Hull integration under pressure conditions
This ensures the technology meets stringent safety and design criteria for real-world maritime operations.
Industry Collaboration and Strategic Vision
The collaboration between GTT and DNV reflects a broader commitment to technical innovation aligned with regulatory foresight. GTT CEO Philippe Berterottière emphasized the company’s dedication to supporting shipowners in reducing emissions and meeting environmental standards. DNV’s Martin Cartwright echoed this sentiment, highlighting the project as a model for integrating technical progress with compliance, essential for the maritime energy transition.
GTT’s new 1 barg membrane tank design is a forward-looking solution that enhances LNG vessel performance, improves fuel efficiency, and prepares shipowners for tightening regulatory demands. The DNV approval affirms the design’s safety and effectiveness, positioning it as a key technology for sustainable and flexible LNG operations. As maritime decarbonization accelerates, innovations like this will play a crucial role in reshaping the future of global shipping.
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Source: GTT
