An Introduction to LNG Bunkering

Liquefied natural gas is poised to become a viable and widely used alternative to conventional marine fuels. As port authorities and shipowners work together on the creation of bunkering infrastructures, and stringent environmental regulations limit the use of high sulphur fuels, there is a clear global impetus for making the switch to LNG. In An Introduction to LNG Bunkering, industry expert Nigel Draffin answers the key questions about LNG bunker fuel in his usual informative and lucid style. He looks at the properties of methane, gas-only and dual fuel engines, tank design, fuel and safety systems, as well as onboard and onshore storage and safety issues. Potential problem areas in the use of LNG, such as weathering, sloshing and methane slip, are sensibly and clearly analysed. Draffin takes a close and informed look at bunkering procedures, including delivery methods, transfer equipment, connections, and loading operations. He also reviews the ongoing work of maritime organisations, such as the International Maritime Organization, in codifying LNG bunkering operations. He looks at the current LNG-fuelled fleet and outlines future trends in the use of LNG-fuelled vessels. Most importantly, as the price of conventional marine fuels remains at high levels, he addresses the complex issue of pricing LNG as a bunker fuel.

Table of Contents:
Foreward Preface About The Author Introduction Chapter 1 Using Gas As A Fuel Chapter 2 Problem Areas Chapter 3 Storage Chapter 4 Onboard Fuel System Chapter 5 Onboard Fuel System Chapter 6 Bunkering Procedures Chapter 7 Training & Regulations Chapter 8 The LNG Fleet Chapter 9 Commercial Considerations Abbreviations Appendix 1 Where to go for help Appendix 2 Some Data On LNG & Methane Index

About the Author :
Nigel Draffin has been involved in shipping for almost 50 years and with the commercial bunker market for over 25 years. He is a founder member of the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) and has served several times on its council of management and executive board and has served as Chairman. Nigel is Director of the Oxford Bunker Course and the Oxford Bunker Course (Advanced), a member of the Institute of Marine Engineering Science and Technology and Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Fuellers. He is also Senior Broker and Technical Director of US-based bunker broker LQM Petroleum Services.

Review :
The book is clearly written and contains numerous illustrations and pictures,which are essential in a book about'new' technology. Draffin's work gives a technically solid, well-written overview of the state of LNG bunkering technology today, and should inform ship operators as they assess whether this new technology is suitable for their vessels