Japanese shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has received approval in principle (AiP) from classification society ClassNK for the design of a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) for ammonia.
As informed, the vessel design was jointly developed by MOL and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industry (MHI) Group.
ClassNK carried out a review of a conceptual design of the Ammonia FSRU based on its Part N of Rules for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships for ships carrying liquefied gases in bulk, “Guidelines for Floating Offshore Facilities for LNG/LPG Production, Storage, Offloading and Regasification” and the other relevant rules. The classification society examined risk assessment taking into account the results of the gas dispersion study. Upon confirming it complies with the prescribed requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.
Last February, MOL completed a concept study on ammonia FSRU. In applying for this AiP, MOL, along with ClassNK and Mitsubishi Shipbuilding, conducted a hazard identification study (HAZID), and identified hazards and their risks to be considered in the design of the ammonia FSRU.
Before the HAZID, MOL conducted a gas dispersion study. The result of the gas dispersion study was used in the HAZID, which allowed the HAZID team to evaluate risks more quantitatively and narrow down specific preventive measures and countermeasures against ammonia leaks. The company plas to use this knowledge to further pursue the business development of ammonia FSRUs.
Source: World Maritime News
