SunSirs: The World's Leading LNG Carrier “Tianshan” Set for Delivery

In recent years, China's liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers have seen rapid development. At Shanghai's Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, an LNG carrier equipped with the world's latest dual-fuel low-speed propulsion system is currently under accelerated construction and scheduled for delivery by month's end.

The 174,000-cubic-meter Tian Shan, scheduled for delivery this month, boasts impressive dimensions: 295 meters in length, 45 meters in width, and a deck area equivalent to three standard soccer fields.

This vessel type is closely tied to our daily lives. As a major natural gas importer, China relies heavily on these “super-sized marine refrigerators” to transport vast quantities of gas beyond pipeline networks. By liquefying gas at low temperatures for efficient transport, a single voyage can supply enough gas to meet the monthly needs of 3.3 million households. China has now achieved independent R&D and construction capabilities for this vessel type. Large LNG carriers are hailed as one of the “three crown jewels” of the shipbuilding industry, alongside large cruise ships and aircraft carriers.

Yang Chunhua, Director of the Development Office at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding (Group) Co., Ltd., explained that during long-distance ocean voyages, LNG inevitably evaporates like water, resulting in losses. Therefore, this vessel is equipped with a world-leading liquid cargo containment system, enabling safe navigation while carrying LNG at temperatures as low as -163°C. Additionally, it employs a dual-fuel propulsion system, reducing daily carbon emissions by over 10 tons compared to traditional fuel-powered vessels.

In short, this vessel type features low comprehensive energy consumption, excellent cryogenic performance, and strong cargo capacity. Consequently, Hudong-Zhonghua delivered 11 LNG carriers last year, setting a new industry record and gaining widespread recognition in international markets.

Orders Booked Through 2030

China's Green Shipbuilding Industry Sails Full Steam Ahead

What is the current status of orders and production? What percentage of vessels being built are green ships?

Yang Chunhua explained that for large LNG carriers and container ships, the company currently holds orders for over 80 vessels, with production scheduled through 2030. Among these, 80% are green ship orders from global clients. Beyond superior performance, Hudong-Zhonghua's large vessels leverage digital construction technologies to reduce build cycles from 21 months to 16-17 months, lowering overall costs.

Green Ship Development

Defining Future Ocean Routes

What are the future trends for green ships? What core technologies are under development or breakthrough?

Yang Chunhua stated: “Our new ship development portfolio incorporates green technologies related to methanol and LNG clean energy, along with other energy-saving designs. Beyond meeting the latest international carbon emission standards, this aligns with market demand. It can be said that whoever masters green technology will dominate the market in the future.”

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