COSCO’s FLNG design wins DNV approval

China’s COSCO Shipping (Qidong) Offshore and COSCO (Nantong) Shipyard have secured approvals from DNV via two certifications for their floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) liquefaction and storage unit.

According to DNV’s social media post, the two arms of the Chinese state-owned conglomerate have received an approval in principle (AiP) as well as a main scantling approval (MSA). The MSA confirmed the durability of “key” structural elements, while the AiP covered the stability, marine and electrical systems and safety.

As explained, the dual assessment was done to de-risk the project early and push the concept’s development to the next stage.

Qu Ming, General Manager of COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry (Qidong)/COSCO Shipping Shipyard (Nantong), commented: “[This] newly developed near-shore standard FLNG hull design features both scalability and ease of construction, enabling rapid response to client requirements. It significantly shortens project design and delivery schedules while reducing clients’ investment costs.” 

Norbert Kray, DNV Regional Manager for Greater China, said that: “This innovative new FLNG concept reflects the industry’s drive for flexible, lower-carbon energy solutions. Through this MSA and AiP, we’re proud to support COSCO Shipping with DNV’s deep technical expertise. Building of a platform of advanced, independent, and rigorous rules and standards, helps build confidence across the industry, enabling them to take the steps forward in offshore LNG production.”

China is seeking to be become the leader in the floating LNG production market, with its shipyards delivering numerous projects within the past couple of years. For instance, COSCO Shipping Heavy Industries and COSCO Shipping LNG Investment recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement with France-based LNG containment specialist GTT to work together on the production of LNG carriers, ethane carriers, FLNG units, and crude carriers.