Dalian Shipbuilding Launches Innovative LNG Carrier Design
Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd. (DSIC) has introduced a groundbreaking vessel design aimed at decarbonization, featuring a wind-assisted 175,000 m³ LNG carrier. This innovative design has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV), confirming its technical feasibility and regulatory compliance for integrating wind-assisted propulsion into LNG carrier operations. The new vessel promises enhanced energy efficiency and operational reliability, marking a significant step forward in sustainable shipping.
Revolutionary Design and Technology
The wind-assisted LNG carrier developed by DSIC combines LNG dual-fuel propulsion with advanced sail-assisted technology. This integrated solution offers a practical upgrade pathway for the existing fleet of 175,000 m³ LNG carriers, focusing on cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency. The design incorporates three next-generation foldable wing sails made from lightweight composite materials. These sails feature independent folding and rotation capabilities, allowing for optimal performance in varying wind conditions.
An intelligent monitoring and control system is a key component of the vessel, continuously gathering route-specific wind data. This system automatically adjusts the sail angles in real time, ensuring maximum efficiency during operation. On typical trading routes, the vessel is projected to achieve over a 5% reduction in overall energy consumption, translating to an annual decrease of approximately 2,900 tons in CO₂ emissions. The Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) is expected to be around 58% below the baseline, aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) greenhouse gas reduction strategy and enhancing the long-term value for shipowners.
Collaboration and Future Implications
The AiP from Bureau Veritas is a testament to the rigorous assessments conducted on the vessel’s structural strength, material durability, and operational safety. These evaluations confirmed the design’s suitability for the demanding requirements of ocean-going LNG transport and validated its energy-efficiency goals against the latest IMO standards. This endorsement highlights the ongoing collaboration between BV and DSIC in promoting low-carbon ship innovations.
Building on their previous work in LNG carriers and alternative-energy vessels, both organizations are committed to advancing green ship concepts from design to commercial application. This partnership plays a crucial role in the sustainable development of LNG shipping, paving the way for a more environmentally friendly maritime industry.
