GTT has announced it has obtained, with its partner Hudong Zhonghua Shipbuilding Group Co. (HZ), a double Approval in Principle from China Classification Society (CCS) and DNV for a ‘Ballast-Water-Free’ LNG bunker and feeder vessel concept.
Commenting on the vessel design, GTT noted that, even when ballast water is treated, there is a risk of transferring harmful aquatic organisms and pathogens from one area to another – and the solution developed by the Paris-based company ‘eliminates this risk completely’.
In addition, removing the ballast water treatment system also reduces the energy consumption and CO2 footprint of the vessels.
A ballast-free vessel is also said to offer advantages in terms of investment and operational cost, simplification of vessel operation, reduction of corrosion and prolongation of lifetime. GTT said that an extensive test campaign in the hull test tank had demonstrated the good sailing and seakeeping capabilities of the design.
‘This major technological innovation to improve both the environmental and economic performance of LNG bunker and feeder vessel has been made possible thanks to the support of our partner Hudong Zhonghua,’ said Philippe Berterottière, Chairman and CEO of GTT.
