Leading Classification Society, DNV has evaluated a multi-fuel tank design for ships that can store LNG, methanol, or ammonia, and verified its technical feasibility in compliance with current applicable Rules.

Vale has achieved a major advance in the adoption of alternative, lower-carbon fuels for shipping. A pioneering project developed by the company resulting in a design to incorporate multi-fuel tanks on iron ore carriers has received an Approval in Principle (AIP) from the leading Classification Society DNV. The independent assessment performed by DNV verifies the technical feasibility of the design, and indicates that based on this system, developed in partnership with Norwegian companies Brevik Engineering AS and Passer Marine, vessels chartered by the mining company could be adapted to store liquefied natural gas (LNG), methanol and ammonia in the future.

In Vale’s multifuel development project, PASSER Marine has contributed with knowledge and experience within cryogenic insulation systems.

In parallel contributing in Vale’s development project, PASSER Marine has also received GASA approval from DNV for their PB11 B-tank insulation system with spray insulation, secondary barrier, and leakage detection system.

Based on PB1-technology, the multifuel solution has been brought to daylight. Traditional spray foam used for LNG applications is not compatible with either methanol or ammonia. During joint development project with Vale, PASSER Marine has found a spray foam composition that is suitable for mentioned fuels. In liaise with DNV HQ, the spray foam has been compatibility tested and approved at a DNV accredited laboratory in Norway.

PASSER Marine is proud to be a part of this development project, and look forward to continuing the cooperation with Vale, to find suitable solutions for decarbonizing shipping with greener fuels for tomorrow.

PASSER Marine and PASSER Lanyu, both companies are part of PASSER Group, has together developed the world’s first cryogenic spray foam insulation system for Type-B tanks.
The two companies together are already one the world’s largest provider of tank insulation for traditional C-tanks. With more than 30 patents and insulation systems available for A-tank, B-tank (prismatic & Moss), C-tank and insulated cryogenic piping, PASSER Marine and PASSER Lanyu are complete suppliers of cryogenic insulation and offers full EPCI contracts to clients.

IMO has earlier defined the Type-B tank as a non-pressurized tank with a partial secondary barrier. This definition has now been challenged by us!

The Type-B design employs internal bulkheads, giving it superior anti-sloshing characteristics. Compared to IMO Type-C pressurized tanks, the Type-B have a greater volume efficiency (typical 20-40%) because of geometry.
The prismatic shape makes this type of tank an excellent choice when available cargo or deck space matter. From smaller fishing vessels to larger container vessel.

PASSER Marine and PASSER Lanyu has together developed an insulation system for installation directly on tank skin. Spray foam (PUF) with in-build crack barriers, a dedicated mesh-system for gas detection and an outer layer of the patented “Tough Coat” acting as secondary barrier.
The PASSER Group companies have gone beyond the basic safety aspects for this kind of containment system, required by IMO. A liquid tight full secondary barrier on a B-tank with a unique Gas detection system, will give the operator full control of tank and hold-space condition. Alarms and actions will be applicable when detecting
By having a secondary barrier directly onto insulation and consequently directly onto the B-tank, everything can be prefabricated in parallel with other operations to shorten the overall installation time significantly.
The unique gas detection system consists of a mesh grid surrounding the entire tank. Creating gas paths for a continuous flow of inert gas, and for evacuation of any leaked fuelgas. Together with gas-detectors, potential gas leaks can easily be detected and handled before any flammable gas enters cargo hold-space. Larger potential leaks to be drained into drip-tray (partial secondary barrier).

According to IMO, the partial secondary barrier needs to be in place, but with PASSER Marine’s groundbreaking solution, the safety management has been moved to a higher level.