Bureau Veritas has cleared an integrated crane designed to support ship-to-ship liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering operations, marking a development in equipment designed for the transfer of LNG between vessels.
The approval confirms that the crane has met the applicable technical and safety requirements established by Bureau Veritas. Such certification is important for equipment used in LNG bunkering, where cargo transfer operations require strict controls because of the cryogenic and flammable characteristics of LNG.
Ship-to-ship LNG bunkering involves transferring LNG from a dedicated bunkering vessel to a receiving ship. The process enables vessels to refuel without relying on fixed shore-based infrastructure and is increasingly relevant as shipping operators deploy LNG-fuelled vessels.
The integrated crane is intended to support the connection and handling requirements associated with LNG transfer between vessels. Its clearance provides operators and shipbuilders with an approved equipment solution for bunkering applications.
LNG bunkering requires careful coordination between the vessels involved, with procedures covering equipment integrity, transfer connections, communications, emergency response and operational safety. Certification by an independent classification society can help demonstrate compliance with relevant maritime standards.
The development comes as the shipping industry continues to expand its use of alternative and lower-emission fuels. LNG has been adopted by a growing number of commercial vessels as the sector seeks to reduce emissions and comply with increasingly stringent environmental requirements.
Bureau Veritas’ clearance therefore supports the wider development of LNG bunkering infrastructure and technology, potentially helping facilitate safer and more efficient ship-to-ship LNG fuel transfers.