The Korean Register (KR), the maritime classification society of the Republic of Korea with 80 offices around the world, has awarded an Approval in Principle to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries for a new type of tank shape designed for various liquefied gases and fuels.
The Korean society said that new tank shape developed by HD HHI, the nation’s largest shipbuilding company and formerly called Hyundai Heavy Industries Holdings Co., is designed to improve maritime safety and productivity.
“The new tank shape aims to address the challenge of sloshing that impacts the transportation of liquefied gases such as LNG,” said KR.
“Sloshing refers to the wave-like movement of liquid inside a tank during sea transport. It is crucial to ensure structural stability by minimizing sloshing flow caused by the ship's motion, as excessive sloshing can exert significant impact forces on the tank walls, jeopardizing its structural integrity,” KR explained.
Classed fleet
The society, headquartered in the South Korean port of Busan, currently classes an international fleet of 3,080 vessels.
KR said that HD HHI has successfully optimized the shape of the liquefied gas tank, effectively reducing the sloshing effect and enhancing stability.
“This significantly mitigates the risk of accidents and potential disasters during transportation. Furthermore, the innovative tank design incorporates an improved layout, leading to enhanced work efficiency and productivity,” added KR.
“The newly developed tank shape exemplifies cutting-edge technology that combines improved safety measures, increased productivity and efficient sloshing reduction techniques,” KR said.
HD HHI said it planned to expand the application of the new tanks to various liquefied gas carriers and other ships in the future.
It was expected that HD HHI would continue to strengthen its competitiveness in the liquefied carrier shipbuilding market, including LNG, by “providing safe and reliable solutions” to customers.
KR stated that it was “committed to actively collaborating” with the technology development of new tank types.
“As a leading classification society, KR will provide comprehensive technical support to facilitate the development of next-generation eco-friendly ships, further promoting the advancement of maritime industry,” it added.
