Jiangnan makes a huge leap for LNG carrier shipbuilding in China

Jiangnan Shipyard successfully deliver China’s first large-scale MARK III Flex membrane LNG carrier for ADNOC, marking a historic moment for China and the LNG industry.

A ceremony held at Jiangnan Shipyard on November 25^th 2024 saw notable names gather to mark a historic breakthrough. The Consulate General of the United Arab Emirates in Shanghai, ADNOC Logistics and Services (ADNOC L&S), ADNOC Gas, Wanhua Chemical, the Shanghai government, China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC), DNV, GTT, and more assembled to see the delivery of China’s first large-scale Mark III Flex membrane LNG carrier. This vessel is one of six orders and marks the first milestone of many for Jiangnan Shipyard, the first Chinese shipyard to build the Mark III membrane type LNG liner. Jiangnan signed contracts with ADNOC Logistics & Services in 2022 for six 175,000 cubic meter LNG carriers, and so the AL SHELILA was born.

The first large-scale Mark III LNG carrier delivered in China, AL SHELILA, took only 19 months from steel cutting to delivery and was completed two months ahead of contract delivery date. This was due to the hard work and effort of staff, workers, and the support of ADNOC, DNV, and GTT, as well as related suppliers. Jiangnan first commenced development on the MARK III LNG carrier with a domestic bidding project in 2002. After relocating to Changxing Island in 2008, the construction facilities have expanded massively at Jiangnan’s new site. As a result, the construction of large LNG carriers will no longer be impacted by water depth, bridge clearance, dry dock dimensions, or the lifting capacity of goliath cranes. The optimisation and improvement of the MARK III LNG carrier has and continues to be Jiangnan’s top priority so they could follow the industry evolution driven by LNG trading demands. Since their inception, Jiangnan have made great efforts in the research of project management, construction methodology, supply chains, and workmanship. This preparation played an integral part in Jiangnan’s confidence in building large-scale LNG carriers.

SOURCE : TRADEWINDS