Image_Hudong Home News BV Grants AIP for Five Advanced Gas Carrier and FSRU Projects by Hudong-Zhonghua Feb. 17 2026 LinkedIn Twitter Facebook share Approvals span LNG and Ethane carriers, FSRU, OCC-ready design and 3D Classification Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has awarded Approval in Principle (AIP) certificates for five innovative vessel projects developed by Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd. (Hudong-Zhonghua). These projects, covering LNG and ethane transportation, carbon capture readiness, and 3D classification, underscore BV's role in supporting the maritime industry's transition through technical verification and classification expertise.The AIPs were granted following a rigorous review process by BV, which focused on classification aspects, including the vessels' principal dimensions, cargo handling systems, and cargo containment systems, with particular attention to energy efficiency, carbon emissions, and operational adaptability​, helping ensure the designs are compliant with international standards and BV's Rules .1. "P-Flex" 201,000 cu m Panama-Max LNG CarrierThe newly developed "P-Flex" LNG carrier is designed for enhanced flexibility in global LNG trade routes. Its performance improvements, validated by BV, include:Increased Capacity: A 15.5% larger cargo capacity compared to classic 174,000 cu m LNG carriers, boosting transport efficiency per voyage.Reduced Energy Consumption: Up to 5% lower energy consumption per unit of cargo transported, achieved through optimized hull lines and an efficient propulsion system.Lower Carbon Emissions: Fleet operations analysis shows over 8% annual reduction in carbon emissions when deploying this design.2. Innovative 174,000 cu m LNG FSRUThis Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) features a dual-function design, allowing it to operate efficiently as both an FSRU and an LNG Carrier (LNGC). Key features reviewed by BV include:Dual-Function Design: A propulsion system that meets the operational requirements of both modes.No Load Limit Restriction: The use of a NO96 GW containment system eliminates loading level restrictions during FSRU operation.Environmental Power Generation Units: Achieving up to 7% reduction in fuel gas consumption.Scalable Regasification System: A hybrid heating system adaptable to different seawater temperatures, offering flexible regasification capacity ranging from 750 to 1000 MMSCFD.3. New Generation 150,000 cu m ULEC (Ultra-Large Ethane Carrier)Designed to meet growing global ethane transport demand, this vessel sets new benchmarks with:Lower Boil-Off Rate (BOR): A membrane containment system achieves approximately 15% lower BOR compared to independent Type B tanks.More Environmentally Friendly Propulsion: Fitted with high-pressure dual-fuel engines and an SCR system, allowing fuel flexibility and lower NOx emissions.Future-Retrofitting Potential: Designed to be ‘LNG-Ready’, with the hull structure and low-temperature piping systems pre-configured for potential future conversion, enhancing the vessel’s long-term asset value.4. JDP on 3D Classification for LNG Bunkering VesselBV and Hudong-Zhonghua have entered a Joint Development Project (JDP) to conduct a design approval based on 3D classification for an 18,600 cu m LNG bunkering vessel (Hull No.: H1930A). This collaborative research aims to establish best practices for 3D classification fidelity and procedure approval, paving the way for more efficient digital design processes in