DNV awards AiP for LH2 carrier at Gastech

The classification society DNV has awarded Approval in Principle (AiP) to HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for the design of an 80,000m³ liquid hydrogen (LH₂) carrier at Gastech in Houston this week.

The AiP is part of a broader collaboration between HD KSOE, Woodside Energy, Hyundai Glovis, and Mitsui OSK Lines. The companies are collaborating on the development of an integrated maritime transport chain for liquid hydrogen at scale.

The vessel will have HD Hyundai’s liquid hydrogen tanks with advanced vacuum insulation and an electric propulsion system based on hydrogen dual-fuel HiMSEM engines which run on hydrogen or diesel. Design of the hull and cargo handling system have been developed to maximise operational efficiency and commercial flexibility.

DNV’s AiP means that the Korean company’s LH₂ carrier design concept meets the safety, environmental and technical standards necessary for carriage of the chemical in liquid form. As part of the AiP, the classification society carried out the detailed Hazard Identification and Environmental Impact Identification studies necessary for evaluating and managing potential risks.

Chief technology officer at HD KSOE, Chang Kwang-pil, said: “This AiP from DNV is a crucial validation of our commitment to developing a reliable and cost-effective LH₂ carrier. Achieving this goal requires collective effort across the LH₂ shipping value chain, and we are committed to driving progress through continuous collaboration and innovation.”

DNV’s regional manager for Korea and Japan, Vidar Dolonen, added: “The AiP is another vital step towards building a global hydrogen economy, through safer and more efficient long-distance shipping of LH₂. DNV is honoured to be involved in this project and to support the development of cutting-edge energy solutions.”