Damen reacts to growing LNG market

Damen Shipyards Group’s range of liquefied gas carriers have been developed in direct response to changes seen in the maritime LNG market over recent years. The Dutch company’s designs meet a variety of capacity requirements, from 500m³ to 7,500m³.

Ship owners have been reluctant to make the switch to LNG as a fuel because of the lack of bunkering infrastructure. At the same time, development of bunker infrastructure has been slow to get off the ground due to the low demand from the market.

However, the outlook for the LNG market is changing, a fact that is due to a number of factors. Damen Shipyards Bergum’s Design & Proposal Marketeer, Bastiaan Schurink said there is a continued focus on tightening exhaust emissions. “Emissions regulations are getting tighter every day. Ships need to reduce their emissions – and one way to do that is LNG,” he said.

Following the establishment of the emissions control areas (ECAs), ship owners are looking for solutions to meet new legislation. “Of course, there are other ways, but LNG is a preferred method to reduce not only SO_x and NO_x, but also a substantial amount of CO₂ emissions. Another important point is that the subject of LNG is becoming more and more interesting both commercially and politically. There are a growing number of European LNG bunkering projects that have been initiated by well-known oil and gas majors. EU funding is also making its presence felt,” Bastiaan said.

In response to these developments, Damen is promoting its range of liquefied gas carriers. Damen Product Director Cargo Vessels, Richard Nugteren said: “These vessels will be capable of transporting all types of liquefied gases. LPG and VCM in addition to LNG, for example. They will also exhibit a wide range of cargo capacities; including 500, 1,500, 3,000, 5,000, 6,500 and 7,500 cubic metres.”

Damen’s Liquefied Gas Carrier designs draw on a number of tried and tested characteristics. “For example, they are designed with proven hull forms. Focused on efficient hydrodynamics, this results in minimal resistance during sailing which, in turn, minimises fuel consumption,” Richard said.

For more information visit www.damen.com

7th March 2017