GTT Receives Multiple Approvals in Principle (AiPs) from Bureau Veritas for Advanced LNG Fuel Tank Systems and Innovative 200k LNG Carrier Design 

GTT (Gaztransport & Technigaz)  has been awarded three Approvals in Principle (AiPs) from Bureau Veritas (BV). These approvals further solidify GTT’s leadership in providing forward-thinking, future-ready solutions for the maritime industry. The approvals cover two key areas: GTT’s Mark III Containment System designed for LNG fuel tanks that are convertible to use methanol and ammonia fuels, and GTT’s new 200,000 cubic meter (200k) LNG Carrier concept optimized for slow steaming.

GTT has secured two separate AiPs from Bureau Veritas for its Mark III Containment System, which allows for the conversion of LNG fuel tanks to use either ammonia or methanol fuels. Recognizing the evolving needs of the maritime industry and the potential shift towards alternative fuels, GTT conducted extensive studies to assess the feasibility of converting LNG tanks fitted with its Mark III Containment System to methanol or ammonia fuel tanks.

Considering the possibility that a ship’s fuel source may transition from LNG to methanol or ammonia over its operational life, these studies confirm that the conversion can be carried out during dry dock without significant changes to the main structure of the cargo tank or the containment system itself. However, significant modifications to the ship’s other equipment will be required to accommodate the new fuel types. GTT submitted detailed plans for the conversion process, supported by comprehensive documentation, including risk analyses (HAZID report), leak behavior studies, seakeeping analyses, process functional diagrams, materials compatibility assessments, liquid motions studies, and structural evaluations. Following Bureau Veritas’ thorough review, it is confirmed that the proposed conversions for both ammonia and methanol do not present any obstacles or contradictions with existing maritime rules and regulations.

In addition, GTT also received an AiP for its innovative 200k LNG Carrier Slow Steaming concept. This new design incorporates three cargo tanks, rather than the traditional four, resulting in reduced boil-off gas (BOG) and increased cost efficiencies, both in terms of capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX). This design is supported by GTT’s Mark III Flex+, NO96 as well as GTTNext1 containment systems and aligns with the latest standards for maritime safety and efficiency. The Bureau Veritas review confirms that the slow steaming concept complies with all applicable rules and regulations, making it a viable option for future LNG carrier projects that aim to optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions.

Jean-Baptiste Choimet, Chief Executive Officer of GTT, said: “These Approvals in Principle reaffirm GTT’s ability to be at the forefront of technological and environmental evolutions. They underscore the continued relevance and adaptability of our technologies, not only for LNG carriers but also for LNG-powered vessels. By offering ship-owners the flexibility to meet increasing demands in terms of both operational efficiency and environmental performance, GTT is reinforcing its leadership in fuel flexibility and innovative ship design. Our solutions ensure that ship-owners are equipped to navigate the uncertainty of the industry's transition to greener, more sustainable energy sources while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”