Hanwha Ocean Makes History With World's First Sea Trial LNG Transfer
Hanwha Ocean has made history by conducting the world's first ship-to-ship transfer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) between vessels while both were undergoing sea trials. This innovative method improves efficiency and flexibility, marking a significant advancement in the industry.
Traditionally, LNG carriers conducting gas trials had to load LNG from a terminal and later return the remaining gas. However, Hanwha Ocean has demonstrated that LNG can be directly transferred to another vessel under trial at sea.
This new approach reduces environmental impact and mitigates risks of schedule delays caused by terminal congestion. It is a testament to the company's commitment to safety and efficiency, with strict regulatory compliance and crew expertise being paramount for successful transfers. Despite challenges such as technical complexity, handling cryogenic LNG at extremely low temperatures, and operational risks like thermal shock and ice build-up, Hanwha Ocean has proven the feasibility of this method.
The success of this ship-to-ship LNG transfer under trial at sea highlights the growing trend of using LNG as a marine fuel, as reported by certifications body DNV. As the industry continues to evolve, with the South Korean gas market being a key player, innovative solutions like this will be crucial for improving efficiency and sustainability.
