Samsung Heavy Delivers Groundbreaking LNG Carrier
Samsung Heavy Industries has made a significant advancement in the shipbuilding sector by delivering a 7,500 cubic meter LNG carrier to Korea Line. This vessel is equipped with the KC-2C, a domestically developed LNG cargo hold, marking a pivotal moment for South Korea’s maritime industry. The new carrier has successfully completed its inaugural journey, transporting liquefied natural gas from Tongyeong to a terminal in Jeju.
KC-2C: A Leap Towards Self-Sufficiency
The KC-2C cargo hold represents a strategic move by Samsung Heavy to diminish South Korea’s dependence on foreign technology, particularly from France’s GTT. Traditionally, Korean shipbuilders have incurred costs of approximately $10 million for each gas carrier built using foreign designs. By developing the KC-2C in-house, Samsung Heavy aims to enhance the competitiveness of the local shipbuilding industry and reduce operational costs.
In October 2023, Samsung Heavy showcased the KC-2C’s capabilities by equipping it on its multipurpose LNG bunkering barge, Green Nuri. The company conducted a series of successful demonstrations at its Geoje Shipyard, including LNG ship-to-ship bunkering, cooling tests, and gas trials. These tests not only validated the performance of the KC-2C but also underscored Samsung Heavy’s commitment to innovation and self-reliance in LNG technology.
Looking ahead, Samsung Heavy has announced plans to install the KC-2C containment system on a larger, standard 174,000 cubic meter gas carrier. This next step is expected to further solidify the company’s position in the global LNG market and enhance its technological capabilities.
