The Future of LNG Bunkering: Key Trends and Industry Insights

LNG Bunkering Here is something you must know!

In the current scenario of growing pollution, companies are trying to adapt more and more sustainable approach that not only gives eco-friendly results but also helps them in cost cutting. One such amazing advancement happened in waterways with LNG Bunkering. Before discussing all about it, here is an overview.

What is LNG Bunkering?

Ships, cruise and other waterways use heavy fuel oil, Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and Marine Disel Fuel (MDO) which cause emissions resulting in increased pollution. With the environmental regulatory pressure, the use of LNG (Liquified natural Gas) has risen as a savior. It is known to cut off the harmful emissions and is much more effective than the conventional fuels used on ships. Its stable price has made it more cost efficient. LNG Bunkering simply means the use of liquified natural gas on waterways to promote sustainable living.

How LNG Bunkering Works?

Ships with LNG bunkering have already started their journey in international waters from 2020. These ships are fitted with engines that can run on LNG fuel. Other than reducing cost and pollutants, this fuel has cryogenic temperatures which makes it storable and easily transferable. Therefore, fuel can be transferred from one ship to another amidst the ocean with ease.

LNG bunkering works according to the regulations of local port authorities. The bunker ship carrying fuel has to follow an IMO IGC code to transfer it to the passenger ship or cargo. An IMO IGF interim regulation needs to be followed by the ship receiving LNG bunker fuel.

QC/DC Coupling

This LNG bunkering that happens between shore to ship or ship to ship is done with the use of QC/DC coupling. The quick connect disconnect (QCDC) is a dry break coupling that has a male (tanker) fitting and a female (hose end) fitting. These fittings are connected and disconnected on continuous basis to form a pressure tight and liquid coupling. This is a fast process which gives plenty of time to the crew to have faster operations. Also, the coupling allows faster filling of fuel due to the low pressure drop in the pipe line.

LNG powers into the future

This very effective fuel concept took over the waterways in 2020 and there is a long way to go. Given its benefits, there has been a gradual rise in the number of LNG bunkers. The most promising LNG powered ships are the series of nine 23,000-teu CMA CGM containerships, that made a maiden call in Singapore.

French carriers plan to have more than 20 LNG-powered ships in service by the year 2022. BHP, the mining giant of Australia has committed to reduce GHG emission by agreeing to Shell for LNG- powered newcastlemax bunkers by the year 2022. Many countries have started the LNG bunkering stations along with the procurement of ships. The oil giant Shell aims to increase its LNG bunker fleet by double till the year 2025. Catering to all the facts given, it can be said that LNG- Bunkering is the new normal fuel system for waterways.