Russia's First LNG Bunkering Vessel Nears Launch
Construction of Russia's first LNG bunkering vessel is now in its final stage, its owner Gazprom Neft reported on December 10, following the installation of tanks and other cryogenic equipment for LNG transport and storage.
Each of the vessel's two storage tanks has a 2,900-m3 capacity. They were manufactured using a nickel-iron-based alloy, with high durability and resistance to ultra-low temperatures, Gazprom Neft said. This means that the LNG can be stored safely at temperatures as low as -165oC. The cryogenic equipment includes pumps and piping for loading and discharging LNG and a fuel-tank cooling system.The next step will be installing the cargo deck, and pipe-fitting and installation of cargo handling equipment is ongoing.
"The best international technologies — both in shipbuilding and in LNG storage and transportation — are being used on Russia’s first LNG bunkering project," Gazprom Neft said. "70% of key construction works are now complete: the ship’s hull has been assembled, and energy facilities have been installed, as have fuel tanks. The next stage is going to be launching Gazprom Neft’s LNG bunker at sea."
LNG bunkering is on the rise, particularly in Europe, with stricter International Maritime Organisation (IMO) on the sulphur content of fuels driving recent growth. LNG has become particularly popular as a maritime fuel in the Baltic Sea, where Gazprom Neft's bunkering vessel is expected to primarily operate. The company has said before it plans to start LNG bunkering services in 2021.
(banner picture courtesy of Gazprom Neft)