GTT Secures Order for VLEC Trio Tank Design from Samsung Heavy Industries

French technological containment specialist Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT) has secured an order from South Korean shipyard Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for the tank design of very large ethane carrier (VLEC) trio.

As disclosed, the order booked in the first quarter of 2025 entails three VLECs to be fitted with GTT’s Mark III membrane containment system. The ethane carriers in question will feature a total capacity of 100,000 cubic meters each and trade various types of liquefied gases such as ethane, ethylene, propane, butane, and LPG.

The vessels are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2027. While the owner of the VLEC trio was not revealed, it is understood that the ships were ordered by Japanese shipping giant Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) at SHI.

Environmental Considerations and Long-Term Charter Contract

The newbuilds will have a length of 230 meters and a breadth of 36.6 meters and will be equipped with dual-fuel ethane propulsion engines, expected to reduce greenhouse gas, sulfur oxide, and nitrogen oxide emissions compared to conventional heavy fuel oil vessels.

MOL’s subsidiary, MOL Energia, signed a long-term charter contract for three VLECs with SCG Chemicals (SCGC), Thailand’s largest petrochemical company. This strategic partnership highlights a commitment to sustainable shipping practices and long-term collaboration in the maritime industry.

Overall, the order for the VLEC trio tank design showcases GTT’s expertise in providing innovative containment solutions for the transportation of liquefied gases, while also underlining the industry’s shift towards environmentally friendly propulsion systems and long-term charter agreements to support sustainable operations.