On May 15, the construction commencement ceremony for the 20,000-cubic-meter LNG bunker and carrier (Hull No.: S1157), built by Nantong CIMC Sinopacific Offshore & Engineering Co., Ltd. (hereinafter "CIMC SOE") for GSX ENERGY LIMITED, was held at the West Yard. The ceremony was witnessed by Niu Dong, Director of the shipowner company; Zhu Yipeng, Operations Manager; Ning Baodong, Site Manager; Gautam Ramaswamy, Technical Director of Haihan Capital; Luo Yonghong, Site Manager of ABS; Chen Bin, Deputy General Manager of CIMC SOE's Shipbuilding Business Division; and members of the company's project team.
Group photo at the S1157 commencement ceremony
The 20,000m³ LNG bunker and carrier that commenced construction is a newly optimized and upgraded version developed by CIMC SOE based on a mature hull design. Compared to previous sister vessels, adjustments have been made in core parameters and system configurations. The new vessel has an overall length of 159 meters, a beam of 25 meters, and a design speed of 13 knots, placing greater emphasis on economy and energy efficiency. It is equipped with a Wärtsilä dual-fuel main engine and a 1,300 kW shaft generator, which can meet the vessel's normal sailing power requirements. Additionally, a high-voltage shore power system can be installed as an option. Compared to conventional LNG bunker and carrier vessels, this vessel uses a dual-fuel boiler with GCU functionality. Taking into account ice-class requirements, it can utilize boil-off gas to produce steam for cabin heating when at berth, achieving maximum utilization of LNG fuel.
Steel cutting for S1157
The successful commencement of another 20,000m³ LNG bunker and carrier further consolidates the company's technological advantages and market position in the global gas carrier sector. Looking ahead, CIMC SOE will continue to strengthen its full-spectrum liquefied gas carrier design and construction capabilities, supporting the sustainable development of the global shipping industry with high-quality products and services.
