Hanwha Ocean Completes World's First Ship-to-Ship LNG Transfer at Sea
Hanwha Ocean has achieved a significant milestone with the world's first ship-to-ship transfer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) at sea. This breakthrough reduces environmental impact and prevents schedule delays, marking a major advancement in LNG transportation.
Traditional LNG carrier trials require loading and unloading at terminals, but the new method allows direct transfer at sea. This is a technical feat, involving precise pressure control and handling cryogenic LNG at extremely low temperatures. Despite operational risks like thermal shock and ice build-up, Hanwha Ocean successfully completed the transfer, demonstrating strict regulatory compliance and crew expertise.
The use of LNG as a marine fuel is growing rapidly, making this breakthrough particularly relevant. gasworld Intelligence's Pulse report offers the latest data and trends in the South Korean gas market. It highlights South Korea's strategy to secure stable LNG supply, with KOGAS signing a long-term contract with TotalEnergies for 1 million tons of LNG annually. The report also covers initiatives like Posco's LNG bunkering project, driving demand growth for LNG-fueled vessels and infrastructure in ports like Yeosu-Gwangyang.
Hanwha Ocean's successful LNG ship-to-ship transfer under sea trials paves the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly LNG transportation. The South Korean gas market, as detailed in the gasworld Intelligence Pulse report, is thriving with strategic supply contracts and infrastructure developments, further boosting the potential of this breakthrough.
