Riviera: Air Lubrication Systems Gain Traction as Fuel-Saving Tool for LNG Carriers

UK-based Silverstream Technologies has signed a framework agreement to retrofit an unspecified number of LNG carriers in the Shell fleet with air lubrication systems as a means of reducing fuel consumption and lowering greenhouse gas emissions

The deal will see Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Ltd and Silverstream develop a close working relationship to design, engineer, procure and execute the Silverstream® System.

The new framework will enable Shell to expedite installing the air lubrication technology in its LNG carrier fleet. Initially covering the next three years, the framework will ultimately reduce contract lead times and the total cost of ownership for vessel operators.

The co-operation between Shell and Silverstream Technologies follows in the wake of the delivery of Maran Gas Andros, the first LNG carrier fitted with an air lubrication system. Built by South Korea’s Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME), Maran Gas Andros uses Daewoo’s air lubrication system (ALS). Maran Gas is expected to fit all of its LNG newbuilds with the DSME ALS.

The agreement between Shell and Silverstream Technologies indicates that ALS technology is gaining momentum and credibility as a fuel and emissions savings tool for LNG carriers.

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