Lloyd’s Register, CoolCo and HD HMS successfully deliver

In a significant advancement for sustainable shipping, Cool Company Ltd. has successfully completed a re-liquefaction retrofit on its LNG carrier, the Kool Glacier. This project, executed by HD Hyundai Marine Solution, enhances the vessel’s operational efficiency while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The integration of advanced technology aims to tackle the long-standing challenge of boil-off gas (BOG) management in LNG transportation.

Innovative Technology Enhances Operational Efficiency

The retrofit of the Kool Glacier, a 162,000 CBM LNG carrier, was carried out at Yiu Lian Dockyard in Shekou, China. The project involved the installation of the ALaT TBF 1800 sub cooling re-liquefaction system, which has a capacity of 2.1 tonnes per hour. This innovative system allows the Kool Glacier to condense boil-off gas back into liquid form, significantly improving both operational efficiency and environmental performance.

By effectively managing BOG generated during maritime transport and waiting periods at terminals, the new system not only reduces operational costs but also lowers the vessel’s carbon footprint. The retrofit was completed ahead of schedule, with the Kool Glacier departing on March 16, 2025, and successfully conducting gas trials on a laden voyage from Papua New Guinea to Thailand in early May 2025.

Lloyd’s Register (LR) played a crucial role in this project by providing technical oversight and classification support. Their expedited notation for the re-liquefaction unit installation ensured that the ship’s delivery timeline was maintained. This achievement marks the second successful re-liquefaction retrofit in CoolCo’s fleet, following similar work on the Kool Husky, with plans for further upgrades on additional vessels.

Industry Leaders Collaborate for a Sustainable Future

The successful completion of the Kool Glacier retrofit highlights the growing demand for sustainable solutions in the maritime industry. As regulatory pressures increase and the need for fuel efficiency becomes paramount, CoolCo plans to retrofit a total of five vessels with sub-coolers.

Jose Navarro, Global Gas Technology Director at LR, emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating that it reinforces LR’s commitment to supporting LNG operators in their sustainability efforts. He noted that LR’s proactive approach combines global expertise with local responsiveness, ensuring that complex retrofits are delivered on time and provide lasting value.

Richard Tyrrell, CEO of CoolCo, praised LR’s technical expertise and flexible approach, which were vital throughout the retrofit process. He highlighted that the partnership with LR enables CoolCo to deploy technology that enhances fleet efficiency and competitiveness in the market.

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Kidong Lee, CEO of HD Hyundai Marine Solution, also expressed pride in the successful completion of the retrofit, reinforcing HD HMS’s reputation as a reliable technology partner in the maritime industry’s transition toward sustainability. The completion of both commissioning and cold testing ahead of schedule demonstrates their commitment to outstanding performance and efficiency.

As the maritime industry continues to evolve, LR’s latest report, “Fuel for Thought: LNG,” analyzes the current status and future potential of LNG in maritime decarbonization, underscoring the importance of innovative solutions in achieving a sustainable future.