The world’s first liquid hydrogen carrier, constructed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), has been placed on ClassNK’s record.
Hydrogen is a clean energy source that does not produce CO2. The usage of hydrogen is predicted to grow over the world, and efforts are underway to establish a supply chain in order to create a Hydrogen Society. KHI, a member of the CO2-free Hydrogen Energy Supply-chain Technology Research Association, constructed the Suiso Frontier, the world’s first liquefied hydrogen transporter (HySTRA).
At a temperature of -253 degrees Celsius, hydrogen liquefies, posing risks such as flammability, permeability, and more. In 2017, ClassNK published the “Guidelines for Liquefied Hydrogen Carriers” describing the safety requirements based on the IMO’s Interim Recommendations for Carriage of Liquefied Hydrogen in Bulk, in order to contribute to the safe seaborne transportation of hydrogen, which requires intensive handling measures.
ClassNK completed the required surveys on Suiso Frontier’s hull structure, machinery, onboard equipment, materials, and other items in accordance with its class regulations and “Guidelines for Liquefied Hydrogen Carriers” and added the vessel to its register on December 3, 2021.
ClassNK will continue to support the vessel’s safe operation through surveys in service, while also using the knowledge and experience gained from the upcoming surveys to keep its guidelines up to date and contribute to the establishment of an appropriate international standard, thereby assisting in the social adoption of hydrogen transportation.
