Dutch software consultancy firm, Systems Navigator, has created a demonstration model using simulation modelling and interface software in order to look at potential LNG bunkering issues in ports.
As developments are made in emission regulations, more and more ports and terminals are looking to develop their LNG bunkering facilities in order to provide shipowners with the necessary LNG resources to allow for more environmentally friendly shipping.
While the economic side of LNG bunkering can be an advantage, Joost Smits, business development manager of Systems Navigator, believes that ports may face more problems in terms of infrastructure not being capable of handling the number of vessels needed to either ensure send out rates (unloading vessels) or vessels that want to load LNG.
Mr Smits told Port Strategy: “Looking from a simulation perspective at the terminal infrastructure, I think that scheduling will become more and more important. Terminals will need to invest in such systems and potentially in additional berths. Besides this, terminals shall feel the need to change their send out contracts, since this is an instrument to control the waiting time.”
The demonstration terminal, which has been based on a number of terminals worldwide, includes two berths, user defined storage capacity, pre and post berth times and various variability settings for vessel arrivals, for both loading and unloading.
The demonstration model looks at possible bottlenecks in infrastructure which could cause increased waiting times, demurrage or the inability to meet send out contracts. It can determine whether a terminal needs to be optimised by either setting up advanced scheduling, adding an extra berth, increasing pumping capacity for both loading and unloading or changing send outs which may include the purchase of new equipment.
The company recently received a demonstration request from Life Chemicals GP.