Lloyd's Register (LR) has awarded an approval in principle (AIP to Belgium's Exmar for its ammonia (NH3) fueled, 40,000-cubic-metre midsize gas carrier (MGC) design.
China's Jiangnan Shipyard was responsible for the ship design while a Finnish engine manufacturer provided all input for the ammonia fuel gas supply system.
The Novel Technology Evaluation included an overall examination of fundamental aspects of the design and compliance with LR's Rules and Regulations for the Classification of Ships and for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk (for Gas Ships), incorporating the International Code of the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code).
A risk assessment was also conducted to ensure that risks arising from the use of ammonia fuel affecting persons onboard, the structural strength, or the integrity of the ship are addressed in accordance with LR's ShipRight Procedure for Risk-Based Designs (RBD). This included a hazard identification (HAZID) study that led to the AIP.