Thursday, August 20, 2015

Jensen Develops LNG Barge Concepts

By Mark Edward Nero

Seattle-based Jensen Maritime, a subsidiary of Crowley Maritime, said August 19 that it has developed two new liquefied natural gas bunker barge concepts that are fully customizable to meet customers needs.

The first concept involves outfitting an existing barge with an above-deck LNG tank. The concept can be further modified, according to Jensen, to accommodate more than one type of product, if a customer has a need for multiple liquid transfers.

The company says advantages of this design include a fast turnaround and a reduced need to invest in specialized assets if a customer has short-term LNG requirements.

The second concept is for a purpose-built, new bunker barge. The design features an LNG tank nestled inside the barge and also has the latest safety features and efficiencies.

We understand that customers have very different needs when it comes to LNG, company Vice President Johan Sperling said. Whether LNG is required for the long or short term, or in larger or smaller quantities, Jensen has a bunkering solution.

Bunker barges are seen by Jensen and Crowley as an innovative solution for the maritime industry, which is currently struggling with the decision over which to develop first LNG infrastructure or vessels.

These barges are an ideal resource for those who have LNG needs at ports not located near an LNG terminal or as an alternative to over-the-road transportation, the company said in a news release.
An artist rendering of the vessel designs is available at Crowleys website.