Hanwha Ocean Debuts LNG Firsts on MOL Newbuild Vessels

Hanwha Ocean has marked two LNG vessel innovations at its Geoje shipyard in South Korea, launching a floating storage and regasification unit designed for 25 years of continuous regasification and holding a naming ceremony for a wind-assisted LNG carrier. The FSRU, ordered by Mitsui OSK Lines and chartered by Singapore LNG Corporation, is described as the first designed to operate continuously for 25 years without dry-docking maintenance. The carrier Fujin Sailor is described as the first LNG carrier equipped with wind-assisted propulsion.

 

Details of the Milestones

 

Hanwha Ocean has marked two innovations. Both concern LNG vessels. They took place at its Geoje shipyard. This is located in South Korea. Both involve vessels for Mitsui OSK Lines.

The two milestones are distinct. One is the launch of an FSRU. The other is an LNG carrier naming. Both represent notable firsts. They reflect the shipbuilder's innovation.

 

The FSRU's Distinction

 

The FSRU has a notable capability. It is designed for continuous regasification. This spans 25 years without interruption. It avoids normal dry-docking maintenance. This is described as a world first.

The vessel has a clear purpose. It was ordered by MOL in 2024. Singapore LNG Corporation will charter it. It will supply natural gas to Singapore. It forms part of Singapore's gas infrastructure.

 

The FSRU Challenge

 

The continuous requirement posed challenges. The shipbuilder has built 12 FSRUs before. However, 25-year continuous operation was unprecedented. This presented a significant challenge. It required special engineering measures.

The shipbuilder addressed this carefully. It added redundant equipment to the vessel. Durable coatings were also applied. It carried out dozens of risk assessments. It expanded the use of 3D model reviews.

 

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The Wind-Assisted Carrier

 

The second milestone concerned a carrier. MOL named the vessel Fujin Sailor. It is described as a world first. It is the first LNG carrier with wind-assisted propulsion. It also carries two hard-sail units.

The vessel has a defined charter. It is scheduled for delivery in late September. It will serve a long-term charter. This is with US energy major Chevron. A Chevron executive christened the vessel.

 

The Environmental Dimension

 

The carrier offers emissions benefits. Its two wind units aid propulsion. They should reduce fuel consumption. Associated emissions would also fall. This compares with conventional propulsion alone.

The vessel fits a broader strategy. It is the fourth MOL ship with the technology. MOL targets net-zero emissions by 2050. It plans to expand the technology. It aims for 80 equipped vessels by 2035.

 

Significance of the Milestones

 

The milestones showcase LNG innovation. Both vessels represent firsts. The FSRU pioneers continuous operation. The carrier pioneers wind-assisted LNG transport. These reflect advancing vessel technology.

The milestones strengthen the shipbuilder's position. They demonstrate its engineering capability. This spans complex LNG vessels. The vessels also support MOL's goals. They advance both efficiency and decarbonisation.