ABS Approval in Principle for LNG Barge

Bristol Harbor Group has been awarded an “Approval in Principle” (AIP) by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for the design of the 3,000 cubic meter LNG transport barge design on behalf of Conrad Shipyard in the U.S.

Bristol Harbor Group (BHGI) has a decade long relationship with Conrad Shipyard that has traditionally focused on coastal liquid cargo barges from 26,000 BBL to 80,000 BBL. It is the 300’ version of these successful double hull oil barges that serves as the basis for this LNG transport barge.

This new design will serve the purpose of primarily transporting LNG in blue water along the U.S. coastline. Storage containment consists of four Type C pressure tanks, all equally sized at 750 cubic meters. The tank design offers suitable hold times for cargo transport without the need for reliquefaction. The design is focused on constructability and ensuring cargo safety.

“Bristol Harbor Group is honored to have Conrad Shipyard’s trust regarding this exciting project. We are on the cutting edge of the marine industry’s adoption of LNG, and it is a pleasure to work with a client who shares our drive and commitment to this emerging market,” says Greg Beers, P.E. president/principal naval architect.

BHGI has been actively involved in a number of marine related natural gas projects for a variety of clients. Recently, BHGI has been awarded a contract to perform design conversion work for the United States Army Corps of Engineers on one of their vessels from diesel to dual fuel.