CLASSNK has issued an approval in principle for cargo containment and cargo handling systems for a liquefied hydrogen carrier.
France-headquartered engineering company GTT developed the concept. The company described the tank as a membrane type containment system for liquefied hydrogen.
ClassNK said it reviewed the design of the cargo containment system and cargo handling system based on class rules and the International Maritime Organization’s interim recommendations for carriage of liquefied hydrogen in bulk.
ClassNK issued the AiP following a hazard identification workshop that ascertained potential risks. It found the systems complied with the requirements.
“We are proud to obtain this new approval in principle from ClassNK, whose in-depth technical and regulatory knowledge, as well as their solid experience in hydrogen, demonstrate the relevance of GTT’s technology in the field of hydrogen,” GTT chairman and CEO Philippe Berterottière said.
“We are convinced that the development of containment systems for hydrogen transportation is a key element in accelerating the energy transition.
“GTT’s R&D teams are determined to push back the technological frontiers and make this technology viable and quickly available to the maritime transport and energy players.”
ClassNK said the technological development for maritime hydrogen transportation is progressing with the aim of establishing a hydrogen supply chain.
Masaki Matsunaga, corporate officer and director of plan approval and technical solution division of ClassNK, said the classification society issued the AiP following verification of risk analysis results.
“Anticipating that hydrogen transportation will play a significant role in a decarbonised society, it is our pleasure to be involved in GTT’s pioneering initiative through our expertise in safety assessment.”
ClassNK’s design review was based on Part N of its Rules for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships incorporating the IGC Code, and its Guidelines for Liquefied Hydrogen Carriers.
