LNG bunkering pontoons on inland waters in China

LNG bunkering pontoons are presented to solve the fueling difficulty of LNG ships on inland waterways with a great variation of water height and channel width by seasonal change. First, the background of this concept was analyzed as well as the demand of LNG bunkering pontoons, and the involved idea of levels management. Then, from the safety barrier perspective, safety design principles were discussed, the safety principles and implement measures of LNG storage were provided, LNG tanks for the pontoon were analyzed in detail in terms of their types, design pressure, material selection and leakage protection principles. Also, the safety concerns of LNG supply and bunkering process were raised, and an improved handy bunkering arm & hose, lighter and more flexible than ever before, was introduced. Berthing and unberthing are related to the survival of the pontoon so that the key points of such design were highlighted. It is concluded that (1) based on the levels management, the pontoon equipped with IMO Type C tanks, with reasonable berthing/unberthing and safety designs adopted, is proved to be safe and reliable by practices; (2) by 2025, nearly 30 such improved LNG bunkering pontoons with a fueling capacity of 500 m3 each will be required on Yangtze and Pearl Rivers; and (3) the pontoon's safety and reliability has been verified by practices and its fourth generation has been developed.