K Shipbuilding, Sejin and ClassNK develop eco-friendly LPG carrier

K Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., Sejin Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. and ClassNK have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop an environmentally advanced liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carrier that will comply with the upcoming International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) amendment, effective from July 1, 2028. The signing ceremony took place at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Development Details

The new-generation LPG carrier will be a 9,000 m³ class vessel and is expected to incorporate energy-saving devices such as Rudder Bulbs and Energy Saving Fins. These features aim to enhance propulsive efficiency and reduce fuel consumption while also lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The roles of each party are clearly defined: K Shipbuilding and Sejin Heavy Industries will focus on the design and construction, while ClassNK will provide technical expertise and ensure regulatory compliance.

Amended IGC Code Requirements

The new LPG carrier is expected to comply with the upcoming amendments to the IGC Code, scheduled for adoption at the 112th session of the IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 112) in December 2026. These amendments will introduce several critical changes, including:

• Emergency shutdown arrangements for valves connected to cargo tanks
• Material requirements for exposed cargo piping
• Interlocking and accumulation-pressure requirements for cargo tank pressure relief valves
• Risk-based cargo tank filling limits

The development process will involve a rigorous technical review by ClassNK, ensuring that the design meets all amended IGC Code standards. The companies hope to minimize potential rework during later stages of construction and provide shipowners with an early, validated solution.

New LNG Carrier Design Collaboration

Parallel to their work on the LPG carrier, HD Hyundai Samho Co., Ltd. has also entered into a MOU with ClassNK for the joint development of an LNG (liquefied natural gas) carrier design that will apply the amended IGC Code requirements, set to take effect in 2028. The signing ceremony for this collaboration was also held at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok.

HD Hyundai Samho will develop a new LNG carrier design reflecting the amended regulations, while ClassNK will conduct a technical review based on these revised requirements. This includes addressing critical areas such as emergency shutdown arrangements and material specifications to ensure compliance with future maritime safety standards.

Eco-Friendly Innovations

The eco-friendly initiatives in both projects underscore the industry's increasing focus on reducing environmental impact. The incorporation of energy-saving devices like Rudder Bulbs and Energy Saving Fins not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports global efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions.

Through these MOUs, K Shipbuilding, Sejin Heavy Industries, ClassNK, HD Hyundai Samho, and ClassNK are positioning themselves at the forefront of technological advancements in maritime trade. These innovations will play a significant role in shaping future vessel designs and operational practices within the LPG and LNG sectors.

What this means for operators

Ship operators can expect to see improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions from new vessels built under these MOUs. The implementation of advanced safety features and compliance with updated IGC Code requirements will enhance the overall reliability and environmental performance of the ships. Early adoption of validated designs may offer shipowners a competitive edge in meeting future regulatory standards and reducing operational costs related to energy consumption.