Lightening the Load (LNG)

Abstract

Introduction There are a number of motivators driving LNG side-by-side as a cargo transfer option, not least the success of floating solu-tions in Oil and LPG production projects. The main problem faced is that present LNG ships are designed for conventional manifold loading only. This, coupled with the fact that suitable floating LNG hoses only being in the early stage of develop-ment, ensure that tandem loading is not an option at this time. We also have the situation where it is increasingly difficult to build a shore terminal for receiving Bulk LNG. Ports big enough for the ships are increasingly congested and bulk LNG terminals have strict HSE requirements. The option of having Floating Storage and Regasification Units (FSRUs) situated offshore but near to the ports, offers a solution that is being ex-plored by a number of importers. This again will require side-by-side for discharge, as the gas will increasingly come from the spot market on standard long-haul vessels. With FPSO LNG projects now coming off the drawing boards and going into the yards, companies have to be certain of the capabilities of the Ship-to-Ship (STS) Industry. STS Service Providers need to use their experience to provide an operational envelope that makes the economics work. Historically, Ship to Ship Transfers were generally considered something of a ‘risky’ operation, only carried out when abso-lutely necessary. There is now a growing confidence that the STS Industry today can deliver a high quality, repeatable opera-tion and meet the high safety standards expected in the LNG Industry.

Training Requirements for LNG Ship-to-Ship Transfer

“…The author stated that before STS operation, extensive training covering all aspects of operation is given to the ship's crew by an experienced crewmember or STS Superintendent. Gilchrist in [10] described challenges for the LNG STS industry, including fendering systems, fender davits, mooring equipment, tugs usage, cargo transfer equipment, development of effective regulations and lastly, training requirements. The author explained using up-to-date simulators to transfer knowledge between experienced LNG Masters and experienced Mooring Masters.…”