Bureau Veritas Classes CMA CGM’s First 24,000 TEU LNG Dual-Fuel Mega Container Ship Built by Yangzi Xinfu
Bureau Veritas Classifies CMA CGM’s First LNG Dual-Fuel Ultra-Large Container Ship
Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has officially classified the CMA CGM NOTRE DAME, marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry. This vessel is the first in a series of 24,000 TEU liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel ultra-large container ships (ULCS) being constructed by Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. The CMA CGM NOTRE DAME was delivered in May, showcasing advancements in Chinese shipbuilding and emphasizing the collaboration between BV, CMA CGM, and Yangzi Xinfu in promoting a greener maritime sector.
The CMA CGM NOTRE DAME stands out as one of the most technologically advanced and environmentally friendly ULCS currently in operation. With a length of 399.9 meters and a width of 61.3 meters, it boasts a carrying capacity of 24,092 standard containers. The vessel’s LNG dual-fuel system is engineered to significantly lower emissions of sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide, aligning with the industry’s shift toward a more sustainable future.
Collaboration and Innovation in Shipbuilding
The construction of the 24,000 TEU LNG dual-fuel container ship represents one of the most technically sophisticated vessel types in global shipbuilding. During the design phase, BV’s technical team collaborated closely with the shipyard and designers, reviewing critical design elements such as general arrangement and structural reinforcement. Bureau Veritas Solutions Marine & Offshore (BVS) played a pivotal role in optimizing the hull form, enhancing cargo capacity and energy efficiency while ensuring safety standards were met.
Throughout the construction and commissioning phases, BV’s site surveyors conducted thorough inspections of essential processes. These included large thin-plate welding and the installation and alignment of the extra-long shafting system. Additionally, the team performed installation inspections and functional testing of the vessel’s LNG fuel storage, handling, and fuel gas supply system (FGSS) in strict adherence to BV Rules, ensuring the safety and reliability of the propulsion system.
CMA CGM has established itself as a key strategic partner for BV in the global maritime sector, with ongoing collaboration focused on developing a green fleet. Currently, over 200 vessels in the CMA CGM fleet are classified by BV, with more than 50 additional vessels under construction, including a significant number of environmentally friendly options such as LNG dual-fuel and methanol-powered ships.
Expanding Partnerships in Advanced Vessel Construction
Yangzi Xinfu has emerged as an essential partner for BV in China, with their collaboration evolving from traditional bulk carriers and container ships to encompass advanced vessel segments. This includes very large ethane carriers (VLECs) and large LNG carriers. Presently, several high-tech newbuilding projects at Yangzi Xinfu are underway under BV classification, further solidifying their partnership.
The successful classification of CMA CGM NOTRE DAME not only highlights the advancements in shipbuilding technology but also underscores the commitment of BV, CMA CGM, and Yangzi Xinfu to support the maritime industry’s transition toward sustainability. As the demand for greener shipping solutions continues to rise, the collaboration among these industry leaders will play a crucial role in shaping the future of maritime transport.
