CB&I and Hanwha Ocean Make Strides in Liquid Hydrogen Carriers
CB&I, a key subsidiary of McDermott, has teamed up with Hanwha Ocean, a respected South Korean shipbuilder, to gain Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV for an advanced cargo containment system tailored for liquid hydrogen carriers. This approval represents a major step forward in the emerging field of hydrogen transportation.
Importance of Approval in Principle
The AiP signifies that CB&I's cutting-edge cargo containment technology meets crucial safety standards, including the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) and the Interim Recommendations for Carriage of Liquefied Hydrogen in Bulk from the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Insights from the Experts
Mark Butts, Senior Vice President at CB&I, pointed out the strong collaboration between the two firms, saying, "Hanwha Ocean's impressive capabilities in gas carriers perfectly complement CB&I's vast experience in large-scale storage and handling systems for liquid hydrogen. Together, we’ve crafted a highly efficient carrier design that minimizes boil-off to just 0.05% per day. This innovation enables viable international liquid hydrogen supply chains today."
Features of the Advanced Carrier Design
CB&I's support for Hanwha Ocean is centered on its innovative cargo containment system, which employs vacuum-insulated double-wall spheres essential for transporting liquid hydrogen. With over 60 years dedicated to designing and building LH2 storage tanks worldwide, CB&I is at the forefront of this important initiative.
Collaborative Development Process
Youngchang Shon, Chief Technology Officer at Hanwha Ocean, shed light on their productive collaboration with CB&I and DNV. He mentioned, "Our journey began last year under a tripartite agreement to create an 80,000 m3 medium-sized liquid hydrogen carrier. Extensive research has confirmed the carrier’s performance and structural integrity, along with its cargo handling system and an environmentally friendly electric propulsion system that includes hydrogen fuel cells."
The Future of Hydrogen Transportation
DNV’s Regional Manager, Vidar Dolonen, underscored the significant partnership between CB&I and Hanwha Ocean, stating, "We are witnessing a remarkable example of collaboration between two global leaders in hydrogen and shipbuilding as they endeavor to safely transport liquid hydrogen, which is crucial for the future of renewable energy. DNV is eager to support CB&I and Hanwha Ocean in enhancing their technical capabilities for future hydrogen transport solutions through various propulsion options.”
Company Profiles
About CB&I
CB&I is recognized worldwide as a top designer and builder of storage facilities, tanks, and terminals. With a rich history of completing over 60,000 projects in the last 130 years, CB&I excels in meeting the complex needs of energy infrastructure worldwide. The company operates as a wholly-owned unrestricted subsidiary of McDermott.
About McDermott
McDermott is a leader in delivering integrated engineering and construction solutions specifically for the energy sector. Their comprehensive approach harnesses innovative technology to responsibly convert global resources into essential products. Operating in 54 countries with more than 30,000 employees, McDermott plays a key role in advancing sustainable energy infrastructure.
About DNV
DNV is at the forefront of the maritime industry, focused on improving safety, quality, and environmental performance across all vessel types. Their dedication to research and development makes them a crucial partner in addressing the strategic challenges faced by the industry.
About Hanwha Ocean
Founded in 1973, Hanwha Ocean has grown into a leading global shipbuilding and offshore company. Their modern shipyard located on Geoje Island, Korea, is designed for the complex construction of various vessels and offshore structures, utilizing state-of-the-art technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the approval from DNV entail?
The DNV approval confirms that CB&I's cargo containment systems comply with international safety standards for transporting liquid hydrogen.
How does the carrier design contribute to efficient transport?
It minimizes vapor loss through its strategic design, allowing for a boil-off rate as low as 0.05% per day, facilitating a more cost-effective and sustainable supply chain.
What role does each company play in this partnership?
CB&I focuses on designing and building the storage systems while Hanwha Ocean specializes in the overall ship design and construction.
Why is liquid hydrogen important for renewable energy?
Liquid hydrogen is a key component for clean energy solutions, providing an efficient way to store and transport energy derived from renewable sources.
How does this milestone impact the future of hydrogen shipping?
This approval sets the groundwork for developing international liquid hydrogen shipping routes, significantly advancing the commercial viability of hydrogen as a fuel source.
