New 150,000 cbm ULEC project targets larger-scale ethane transportation
In a groundbreaking partnership, Lloyd’s Register (LR), HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), and GTT have joined forces to develop a cutting-edge 150,000 cbm ultra-large ethane carrier (ULEC) utilizing GTT’s innovative Mark III Slim design. This collaborative effort marks a significant advancement in large-scale ethane transportation and was officially announced at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok.
Exploring the Future of Ethane Transportation
The 150,000 cbm ULEC concept represents a significant milestone in the ethane carrier segment, offering the industry a glimpse into the future of ethane transportation. With the continuous growth in ethane trade volumes and the increasing focus on voyage economics, operators are seeking larger vessel concepts capable of efficiently transporting greater cargo volumes while ensuring top-notch safety, operability, and efficiency standards.
Through this joint development project (JDP), HHI’s shipbuilding expertise, GTT’s cargo containment technology, and LR’s classification and technical assurance capabilities will be combined to develop and assess the vessel design in compliance with LR Rules. The partners will delve into the technical challenges and opportunities associated with scaling ethane carrier capacity to 150,000 cbm, emphasizing vessel design development, cargo containment integration, safety considerations, and regulatory compliance.
Industry Experts Weigh In
Constantinos Chaelis, LR’s Global Gas Segment Director, expressed the importance of advancing vessel concepts that enhance operational and commercial advantages without compromising safety or reliability. Meanwhile, HHI’s Chief Technology Officer, Hongryeul Ryu, highlighted the project’s goal of introducing a new solution that improves vessel performance and economic efficiency through optimized ship designs.
François Michel, GTT’s Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the versatility of their technologies in delivering greater efficiency across ethane transportation. With the Mark III Slim design, increased cargo capacity and shorter construction times are achievable, setting the stage for a new generation of efficient vessels that uphold stringent safety, reliability, and industrial compliance standards.
This collaborative effort not only lays the groundwork for future ultra-large ethane carrier projects but also fosters a deeper understanding of the design, operational, and safety considerations associated with vessels of this scale. As the industry continues to evolve, partnerships like these play a vital role in driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of maritime technology.
