LR and SNAK discuss green technologies
Lloyd’s Register and the Society of Naval Architects of Korea (SNAK) recently hosted this year’s Global Conference on Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering in Southampton, UK. Top of the agenda over the four-day event was sustainable technology and progress in this field. Digitalisation, maritime technical policy, safety and alternative fuels were all discussed.
Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) from South Korea’s shipbuilding sector were in attendance, with executives attending from Samsung Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and Hanwha Power Systems, formally Daewoo. Then CTO Ocean Forum provided the opportunity for discussion on the future of LNG, liquid CO2, and ammonia-fuelled vessels, as well as offshore production facilities.
Samsung unveiled its latest LNG carrier design which demonstrates a major technological leap forward. The vessel will have wind-assist technology, onboard carbon capture, increased cargo capacity, and the potential to use e-fuel.
HD Hyundai emphasised the importance of digitalisation and automation in future ship operations. The company introduced its Integrated Smart Ship (ISS) system which aims to centralise vessel operational data on the bridge and establish remote control centres to manage operations from shore.
Hanwha shared its investment in new technologies, including its new ship operating business Hanwha Shipping and an offshore drilling company.
A range of other topics were on the agenda including the evolution of new business models, joint development projects, and strategies to mitigate the risks of technological obsolescence and the importance of collaborative innovation. Geopolitics was also discussed, including the potential impact on fossil energy demand and the scaling up of lower carbon fuels when Donald Trump re-enters the White House.
Ruth Boumphrey, chief executive of Lloyd’s Register Foundation, an independent global safety charity, drew attention to the longstanding ties between Korea and the UK. She highlighted the fact that LR had been present in the Korean market for 60 years.
