Hanwha Ocean advances standardized FLNG design with ABS approval
Hanwha Ocean has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from classification society ABS for its standardized floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) design, marking a further step in the South Korean shipbuilder’s development of platform-based solutions for offshore LNG facilities.
The approval follows a review of the proposed design against applicable classification requirements and industry standards. The standardized concept is intended to provide a common engineering platform that can be applied across multiple FLNG projects, reducing the need to develop individual designs from the initial stages of each project.
According to ABS, Hanwha Ocean expects the approach to shorten preliminary engineering activities and improve predictability during project execution. By standardizing elements of the design, the shipbuilder aims to streamline engineering processes and improve overall project efficiency.
Standardized approach to FLNG development
Floating liquefied natural gas facilities enable natural gas to be processed and liquefied offshore. Their development involves complex engineering requirements, making design consistency and project execution important considerations for developers and shipbuilders.
Hanwha Ocean’s standardized FLNG concept is designed to provide a repeatable engineering framework for different projects. Rather than beginning each development with an entirely new design, the company intends to use a platform-based approach that can support multiple applications.
ABS completed its review of the proposed design in accordance with the applicable classification requirements and industry standards, resulting in the issuance of approval in principle.
“Standardized designs have the potential to improve consistency and predictability in the development of complex FLNG projects. We are proud to support Hanwha Ocean as it advances a platform-based approach to help streamline engineering and project execution,” said Matt Tremblay, Senior Vice President, Global Markets, ABS.
The approval represents an assessment of the design concept and does not constitute confirmation of a construction contract, an FLNG unit order or a completed facility.
ABS and Hanwha Ocean extend offshore design cooperation
The latest announcement follows previous cooperation between ABS and Hanwha Ocean on standardized offshore production designs.
ABS had earlier completed a basic design review of Hanwha Ocean’s standardized floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) concept, developed for deepwater markets in South America and West Africa. That work also included sustainability-related reviews associated with the FPSO design.
The FLNG approval extends the companies’ design review activities into floating LNG infrastructure, where Hanwha Ocean is seeking to apply standardized engineering principles to future projects.
ABS provides classification and technical services for FLNG facilities across their life cycle, including concept development, design review, construction and operation.
The approval in principle establishes a basis for further development of Hanwha Ocean’s standardized FLNG concept. However, ABS has not announced a specific project using the design, a construction timetable or a commercial order associated with the approval.
