KR has awarded Approval in Principle to HD Hyundai Mipo and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering  for their IMO Type-C tank design applying Engineering Critical Assessment . The AIP was announced on September 10 during the Gastech 2025 exhibition in Milan, Italy.

This project is part of ongoing efforts to address the growing demand for eco-friendly fuels and cargoes such as LNG, ammonia, and hydrogen. These fuels are stored and transported under high-pressure and cryogenic conditions, and in particular, for small and medium-sized gas carriers and bunkering vessels, achieving both efficiency and safety in tank design has become a critical challenge.

To meet these technical challenges, the three parties have developed procedures to apply ECA-based structural integrity assessment methods from the early design stage of IMO Type-C independent tanks. This methodology enables the prediction of crack propagation in metallic structures and provides a structural safety analysis throughout the tank’s operational lifetime under real service conditions.

As part of the project, HD Hyundai Mipo evaluated the structural and fatigue strength of the tank, while HD KSOE led the tank design and structural integrity assessment. KR conducted a comprehensive review of the design in accordance with its classification rules and international regulations, which enabled the issuance of the AIP.

LEE Dong-jin, Executive Vice President of HD Hyundai Mipo, said:

“Through this collaboration, we have further enhanced the design competitiveness of gas carriers and bunkering vessels. By establishing an objective framework to verify the long-term reliability of tank structures, we are able to actively address the diverse needs of the market. We will continue to build on our experience and expertise to consolidate our leadership in the eco-friendly fuel transport sector.”

LEE Dong-ju, Senior Vice President of HD KSOE, stated:

“This project is meaningful in achieving a Type-C tank design that satisfies both safety and efficiency. It also provides a valuable opportunity to enhance the global competitiveness of independent tank technology. Based on advanced evaluation methodologies, we will continue to advance design capabilities that meet the evolving demands of shipowners.”

KIM Han-se, Senior Vice President of HD KSOE’s SD Business Unit, commented:

“The joint development has strengthened the robustness of independent tank design and is expected to enhance competitiveness in the high-value, eco-friendly vessel market. We will work to pursue technological innovation to ensure the safe and efficient transport of alternative fuels while reinforcing the global competitiveness of the shipbuilding industry.”

LEE Yongsok, Executive Vice President of KR, added:

“This AIP highlights the application of ECA-based structural integrity assessment in practical tank design. It demonstrates how advanced evaluation methodologies can be applied from the earliest stages of development to ensure safety and reliability. KR remains committed to providing strong technical support for the development and safe adoption of alternative fuel vessels.”