LNG carriers
Innovative and energy-efficient LNG Carrier designs, tailored to your needs for sustainable and cost-effective operations
Overview
Delivering excellence in LNG Carrier vessel design
At FKAB, we specialize in designing advanced LNG carriers tailored to meet the growing demands of global energy transportation. LNG shipping requires precise engineering to ensure safe cargo containment, high energy efficiency, and compliance with strict environmental regulations. By optimizing cargo handling and propulsion systems, FKAB delivers LNG vessels that maximize operational performance, fuel efficiency, and sustainability.
OUR PROCESS
A streamlined process for exceptional results
Our proven design process ensures every LNG Carrier meets the highest standards of quality, functionality and sustainability.
1
Feasibility study
Evaluating design possibilities and operational needs with technical analysis.
2
Concept design
Collaborating to understand your unique requirements and define the vessel’s purpose and capabilities
3
Contract design
Delivering comprehensive and detailed specifications to guide accurate construction
4
Basic design
Documents for class & authority approval submission and information to ensure safety, functionality, performance and compliance with rules and regulations.
5
Detailed design
A more detailed and extensive set of documents than in Basic Design, intended for the yard to build their Production Design model.
6
Design support
Providing expert guidance for specialized and complex design requirements.
CASE STUDIES
Explore similar projects
Explore how FKAB Marine Design has delivered innovative and successful projects worldwide
Sustainability
Pioneering sustainable ship design
At FKAB, we are leading the way towards a more sustainable maritime industry. By combining innovative technology with eco-friendly solutions, we design vessels that reduce environmental impact, maximize efficiency, and ensure long-term sustainability. Our work sets a new standard that not only transforms the shipping industry – but also creates the conditions for other industries to adapt and evolve towards a more sustainable future.
CONTACT FORM
Let’s design the future together
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FAQ
Answers to guide your maritime journey
What is an LNG carrier?
An LNG carrier is a specialized gas carrier designed to transport liquefied natural gas at approximately −162°C. The LNG is carried in highly insulated cargo tanks designed to maintain cryogenic conditions while safely managing the boil-off gas generated during transport.
What cargo containment systems are used on LNG carriers?
The main LNG cargo containment concepts include membrane systems, where insulated cargo tanks are integrated into the ship structure, and independent tanks such as Moss spherical tanks. The choice affects vessel arrangement, cargo capacity, construction method and operational characteristics.
How is LNG kept at -162 degC during a voyage?
LNG is stored in highly insulated cargo tanks that minimize heat transfer from the surroundings. Some heat ingress is unavoidable, causing part of the LNG to evaporate as boil-off gas. Depending on the vessel and cargo system, the boil-off gas can be used as fuel and/or reliquefied and returned to the cargo tanks.
How is boil-off gas used as fuel?
Boil-off gas from LNG cargo tanks can be supplied to dual-fuel engines, boilers or other suitable consumers on board. When it cannot be consumed as fuel, the cargo system may use reliquefaction to return the gas to liquid form, depending on the vessel and system design.
What sizes of LNG carriers exist?
LNG carriers range from small-scale vessels of a few thousand cubic metres to large ocean-going carriers exceeding 200,000 m³. Conventional deep-sea LNG carriers are commonly around 170,000–180,000 m³, while the largest Q-Max vessels have capacities of approximately 266,000 m³.
What is an LPG carrier?
An LPG carrier is a gas carrier designed to transport liquefied petroleum gases such as propane and butane, as well as other compatible liquefied gases depending on the vessel design. The cargo is kept liquid by pressure, refrigeration or a combination of both.
What is a semi-refrigerated LPG carrier?
A semi-refrigerated LPG carrier transports liquefied gases using a combination of refrigeration and pressure. Compared with fully pressurized vessels, this allows larger cargo volumes at lower tank pressures, while offering greater cargo flexibility than many fully refrigerated designs.
What does LPG carrier design involve?
LPG carrier design integrates cargo containment and handling with hull, stability, structural, propulsion and machinery design. Key considerations include cargo pressure and temperature, tank type, reliquefaction, piping and safety systems, together with applicable class and IGC Code requirements.
What tank types are used on LPG carriers?
LPG carriers use independent cargo tanks selected according to cargo conditions and vessel size. IMO Type C pressure vessels are common on pressurized and semi-refrigerated ships, while larger refrigerated gas carriers may use Type A or Type B tanks. Tank selection depends on pressure, temperature, cargo and vessel configuration.
What gas tanker design services does FKAB offer?
FKAB provides concept, contract, basic and detail design services for gas carrier projects, including LNG, LPG, ammonia and CO₂ carriers and bunkering vessels. The scope can include naval architecture, cargo and machinery systems, structural design, stability, class documentation and technical support throughout the project.
Innovation, passion, trust and reliability
Work with FKAB Marine Design to pioneer the next generation of sustainable shipping