Hyundai Heavy Industries Collaborates with GTT to Enhance LNG Carriers Performance
South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) has recently inked two agreements with French technological containment specialist Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT) to optimize the performance of liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers.
The partnership involves two joint development projects (JDPs) focused on improving membrane-tank integration to enhance onboard ergonomics and operational efficiency of LNG carriers.
Both companies share a common goal of developing innovative solutions that will be applied to these new projects.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with GTT on these significant projects. By leveraging our combined expertise, we aim to innovate and refine vessels for maximum energy efficiency and improved ergonomics, thereby streamlining the supply chain amidst the increasing demand for LNG carriers,” stated Ryu Hong-Ryeul, Head of the Technology Division at HHI.
One of the JDPs will concentrate on the convergent trapezoidal cargo tank No. 1, which is the primary LNG storage tank installed with GTT’s Mark III membrane system. This unique geometry is expected to enhance hull adjustment compared to traditional constant-section tanks, ultimately optimizing cargo capacity.
The second JDP will address an “innovative” flush deck liquid dome design situated at the interface between the membrane tank and cryogenic piping. GTT claims that this design improves trunk-deck ergonomics, simplifies on-board piping, and facilitates maintenance.
Philippe Berterottière, Chairman and CEO of GTT, commented: “These two new joint development projects with HHI demonstrate our shared commitment to designing practical innovations that align with the environmental, economic, and technical requirements of LNG maritime transport.”
GTT’s technology is widely utilized in LNG carriers, with an undisclosed Asian shipyard recently selecting GTT to design the tanks for two new LNG carriers being constructed for an Asian shipowner, scheduled for delivery in Q2 and Q3 of 2027.