ABS has issued approval in principle (AIP) to Hanwha Ocean for a standardized floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) design. The approval follows design reviews completed by ABS based on applicable class requirements and industry standards.

The Korean shipbuilder has adopted a platform-based FLNG design approach that can be applied across multiple projects. According to the company, the aim is to shorten initial engineering and improve predictability in project execution.

Efficiency Gains Through Standardization

The standardized approach is expected to improve overall project efficiency by reducing engineering lead times and streamlining execution processes. By reusing a single design platform across multiple projects rather than developing bespoke designs for each contract, Hanwha Ocean seeks to bring greater consistency to the delivery of complex offshore units.

Matt Tremblay, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Markets, commented on the approval: "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."

Building on Previous FPSO Work

The FLNG AIP is not the first collaboration of this kind between the two companies. ABS previously completed a basic design review for Hanwha Ocean's standardized floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) design, which was developed for the South American and West African deepwater markets. Alongside that review, ABS also carried out related sustainability reviews for the same FPSO design.

The latest AIP extends the classification society's involvement with Hanwha Ocean's standardization strategy into the FLNG sector, a segment where complex liquefaction topsides and hull integration typically make engineering cycles lengthy and costly.

FLNG Standardization to Support Future Offshore LNG Projects

Hanwha Ocean’s standardized FLNG design could help simplify the development of future floating LNG facilities by reducing the need for project-specific engineering from the outset.

The approach may improve design consistency, shorten engineering schedules, and support more predictable project execution. ABS’s approval in principle provides an important step in reviewing the design against applicable classification requirements and industry standards as the shipbuilder advances its standardized offshore LNG solutions.

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