Classification society ABS has joined forces with Arista Shipping, Deltamarin, Technigaz (GTT) and Wärtsila in the ‘Project Forward’ joint development program (JDP) to develop a dry bulk carrier concept that employs LNG as fuel.

Project Forward is led by Athens-based Arista Shipping. It began in May 2015 with the aim of developing a commercially feasible LNG-powered dry bulk carrier design capable of complying with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index 2025 standards, as well as with all relevant emission reduction regulations.

“The long-term potential for LNG as a marine fuel is tremendous,” ABS Vice President of Global Gas Solutions Patrick Janssens said.

“We see the near-term opportunities for larger vessels on fixed and known trade routes, but more opportunities will emerge as concepts mature and bunkering infrastructure expands. Environmental stewardship will continue to be a concern, and owners will be evaluating alternative fuel choices,” he added.

The vessel would use a new type of fuel tank capable of sailing 12,000 nautical miles over 40 days between bunkering.

ABS said it will provide approval in principle for the concept, which is based on the Deltamarin B.Delta 82 design, utilizing a GTT membrane LNG fuel tank.

This design could also be applied to other bulk carrier sizes and serve as the basis for an LNG-fueled tanker, according to ABS.

The concept features a Wärtsilä four-stroke, medium-speed engine without auxiliary generators. This is the first time this configuration has been applied to a vessel of this type, significantly simplifying the vessel’s engine room arrangement and contributing to lower capital expenditure.

Project Forward will be presented today at the Posidonia 2016 conference and exhibition that is being held in Athens, Greece from June 6 to 10.