ABS, a provider of classification and technical services to the marine and offshore industries, has published the ABS Guide for Building and Classing LNG Regasification Vessels, outlining guidance for classing LNG regasification vessels.
Floating LNG regasification uses specialized ships, commonly referred to as LNG regasification vessels or Floating Storage and Regasification Units (FSRU), which offer a flexible and efficient way to deliver LNG to new and expanding markets. This Guide covers both purpose-built LNG regasification vessels and existing LNG carriers that are converted to operate with regasification plants onboard.
Whereas the latest update of the IGC (The International Code of the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk) provides high-level requirements for ships with regasification plants, the ABS guide for regasification vessels presents clear guidance to designers and shipyards developing these types of ships. Recognizing the unique operational characteristics of LNG regasification vessels, ABS has included in this Guide provisions that allow Underwater Inspection in Lieu of Drydocking (UWILD) for extended periods of time.
