The new 93,000-cubic-meter (CBM) capacity Panda 93P VLGC
design has been developed by Jiangnan Shipyard, part of the CSSC Group (China
State Shipbuilding Corporation), as an evolution of of the shipyard’s Panda gas
carrier series, featuring optimized hull-form to allow increased cargo capacity
without significant increases in fuel consumption. The design incorporates two
deck-mounted liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fuel tanks, enabling LPG-fueled
operations when carrying non-LPG cargo.
Singapore-based gas shipowner Sinogas has placed a firm
order for two of the innovative VLGCs, with options for three more vessels. The
delivery of these gas carriers, principally dedicated to the carriage of LPG,
is scheduled for the first half of 2023.
Once in operation, the new design will reduce CO2 emissions
by approximately 32% less in comparison with the previous generation of 84,000
cbm VLGCs powered by low-sulfur fuel oil. This dramatic reduction reflects the
highly optimized design and economies of scale, as well as the use of LPG as
fuel.
A scheduled review of IMO policy measures could result in
more stringent emissions targets, said Jiangnan Shipyard’s Hu Keyi, Chief of
Corporate Technology. He believes gas as fuel will be a reliable pathway to
bridge the emission gap. “Furthermore, Jiangnan aims to be on the cutting-edge
of technological development in this field by pushing for “initiative green”
solutions, as opposed to “passive green” based on existing technology.” Hu
further explained that the "Panda 93P" builds on Jiangnan’s tradition
of “Innovation with Confidence” in the design of gas carriers at the Jiangnan
Institute of Technology (JIT), supported by engineering and design expertise
from classification societies, like Bureau Veritas.
“Through a revolutionary structural configuration, Jiangnan
has been able to enhance cargo capacity within traditional “Houston Ship
Channel” dimensions without significantly increasing fuel consumption”, Hu
said.
This achievement has been realized by the Jiangnan team’s
use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for hull line optimization. Jiangnan
also adopted smart shipbuilding techniques with the use of digital technology,
3D digital mock-ups, 3D model submission and production planning, erection
simulation and lifecycle management.
Hu continued, ““As the strategy of forthcoming transition in
marine industry, Jiangnan has positioned itself to establish a multiple party
program focused on a fully circular approach to the management of gas-fueled
green ships.
"Definitely, we will invite Bureau Veritas’ involvement
in this program. We think the future maritime industry will be dependent on
momentum for continued innovation through increased studies of disruptive technologies
and non-traditional materials. Decarbonization is not only the responsibility
of shipbuilding and shipping, it will need collaboration across the value
chain. More stakeholders need to be involved."
Alex Gregg-Smith, Senior Vice President & Chief
Executive, North Asia & China, at Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore
said, “Bureau Veritas has had many successful projects with Jiangnan Shipyard,
especially in gas carrier segment, during the past decades. This new generation
of VLGCs establishes a significant milestone towards decarbonization. At BV, we
are now more than ever committed to helping in the reduction of our industry’s
environmental impact, as well as supporting our stakeholders through their
unique sustainability journey.”