There are two main types of LNG Bunkering: ship-to-ship (STS) and truck-to-ship (TTS). STS involves transferring LNG from one ship to another, while TTS involves transferring LNG from a truck to a ship. TTS is the most common form of LNG Bunkering, as it allows for the transfer of LNG to ships in remote locations, where STS is not possible. The process of LNG bunkering involves several steps. The first step is to prepare the ship for bunkering, which involves ensuring that the ship has the necessary equipment and systems to handle LNG. This includes installing LNG tanks, vaporizers and fuel supply systems.
Next, the Liquefied Natural Gas is transferred from the supply source to the ship. During the transfer, the LNG is kept at a temperature of minus 162°C to maintain its liquid state. The LNG Bunkering is then vaporized, which involves heating the LNG to convert it into a gaseous state, so that it can be used as fuel. Once the LNG has been vaporized, it is stored in the ship’s fuel tanks, ready for use. The LNG is then used as a fuel to power the ship’s engines, either by direct injection into the engines or by being burned in a boil-off gas generator.
