ABS Awards Hanwha Ocean AIP for Multi-Purpose Fuel Tank and FGSS Design

ABS has granted Hanwha Ocean a Preliminary Approval (AIP) for a multi-purpose fuel tank and fuel gas supply system. This innovative design allows an LNG carrier to switch from LNG to ammonia fuel without the need to replace the fuel tank or supply system. The approval, announced at Gastech 2026, pertains to the fuel tank and integrated fuel gas supply system for an electrically powered LNG carrier operating on a gas turbine.

The system is designed to deliver either LNG or ammonia to the gas turbine, facilitating a seamless transition between the two fuel types. ABS evaluated the design against applicable class and international standards. Gareth Burton, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Engineering, highlighted the significance of fuel flexibility in the evolving regulatory landscape, stating that the engineering challenge of achieving it without tank replacement is substantial.

ABS is confident in endorsing Hanwha Ocean's concept and supporting its feasibility assessment against relevant requirements. This approval follows a series of related projects between ABS and Hanwha Ocean, including an AIP for an ammonia gas turbine propulsion system in 2023 and a gas dispersion study for a 174,000 CBM LNG carrier equipped with an ammonia gas turbine in 2024.

As the maritime industry pursues net zero emissions, Hanwha Ocean's multi-purpose fuel design provides shipowners with a practical and adaptable route from LNG to ammonia, ensuring long-term competitiveness. Hanwha Ocean's Chief Technology Officer, Young Chang (James) Shon, affirmed the company's commitment to developing future-ready technologies that support sustainable shipping.