ABS has released its latest report into the potential of advanced nuclear technology for maritime applications. It involves a study of a small modular reactor on a standard liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier.
The transformational impact of a high-temperature, gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) on the design, operation and emissions of a 145,000-m3 LNG carrier design was modelled by ABS and Herbert Engineering Corporation (HEC). The study is designed to help industry better understand the feasibility and safety implications of nuclear propulsion and to support future development projects.
The study provides important information on heat and energy management, shielding, weight distribution, and other design features for an LNG carrier with nuclear propulsion. This will assist the identification of design issues that will inform future Rules development.
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Higher speeds, refuelling every six years
The study also found the HTGR technology allowed faster transit speeds and offers zero-emission operations. There would also be no requirement to refuel, although the HTGR technology would need replacing approximately every six years.
‘While this technology is well understood on land, adapting it for marine application is in its infancy,’ says Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. ‘However, this study and the other research we have carried out clearly highlight its significant potential to address not only shipping’s emissions challenge, but to deliver a range of other operational advantages to the industry. ABS is committed to helping the industry evaluate its suitability for use in a range of use cases and LNG carriers is just one of a range of potential applications we are exploring.’
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Design features
The study shows a nuclear propelled LNG carrier would have specific design features, with reactors placed at the rear of the vessel and batteries forward of the location occupied by fuel tanks on current vessels and a reinforced hull. Given design constraints, the HTGR technology would only be suitable for larger LNG carriers.
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Floating nuclear power plants
The report is the latest in a succession of initiatives from ABS designed to address challenges to the adoption of nuclear technology at sea. Earlier this month, ABS launched the industry’s first comprehensive rules for floating nuclear power plants at a forum for nuclear industry leaders held jointly with Idaho National Laboratory (INL).
Held at ABS’ world headquarters in Texas, the event saw presentations on the latest reactor technologies from leading companies and publication of a detailed study from ABS and HEC modelling the design, operation and emissions of a floating nuclear power plant.
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded ABS a contract to research barriers to the adoption of advanced nuclear propulsion on commercial vessels.
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Reports for download
The reports are all available for download:
- ABS requirements for nuclear power systems for marine and offshore applications
- Pathways to a low carbon future – Floating nuclear power plant
- Pathways to a low carbon future – LNG carrier nuclear ship concept design
Picture by ABS/Herbert Engineering.
