Korean Register grants AIP for HD Hyundai Mipo and HD KSOE Type-C tank design with ECA application

Korean Register (KR) has awarded Approval in Principle (AIP) to HD Hyundai Mipo and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) for an IMO Type-C tank design applying Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA). The announcement was made on September 10 during the Gastech 2025 exhibition in Milan, Italy.

The project responds to growing demand for vessels capable of transporting alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), ammonia, and hydrogen. These fuels are handled under high-pressure and cryogenic conditions, requiring advanced tank design solutions for small and medium-sized gas carriers and bunkering vessels.

To address these challenges, the three parties developed a methodology to integrate ECA-based structural integrity assessment into the early design stage of IMO Type-C independent tanks. The approach enables prediction of crack propagation in metallic structures and provides a structural safety evaluation across the tank’s operational lifetime.

As part of the collaboration, HD Hyundai Mipo conducted structural and fatigue strength assessments, while HD KSOE was responsible for the tank design and structural integrity evaluation. KR reviewed the design against its classification rules and international standards, leading to the issuance of the AIP.

LEE Dong-jin, Executive Vice President of HD Hyundai Mipo, said:
“Through this collaboration, we have further enhanced the design competitiveness of gas carriers and bunkering vessels. By establishing an objective framework to verify the long-term reliability of tank structures, we are able to actively address the diverse needs of the market. We will continue to build on our experience and expertise to consolidate our leadership in the eco-friendly fuel transport sector.”

LEE Dong-ju, Senior Vice President of HD KSOE, stated:
“This project is meaningful in achieving a Type-C tank design that satisfies both safety and efficiency. It also provides a valuable opportunity to enhance the global competitiveness of independent tank technology. Based on advanced evaluation methodologies, we will continue to advance design capabilities that meet the evolving demands of shipowners.”

KIM Han-se, Senior Vice President of HD KSOE’s SD Business Unit, commented:
“The joint development has strengthened the robustness of independent tank design and is expected to enhance competitiveness in the high-value, eco-friendly vessel market. We will work to pursue technological innovation to ensure the safe and efficient transport of alternative fuels while reinforcing the global competitiveness of the shipbuilding industry.”

LEE Yongsok, Executive Vice President of KR, added:
“This AIP highlights the application of ECA-based structural integrity assessment in practical tank design. It demonstrates how advanced evaluation methodologies can be applied from the earliest stages of development to ensure safety and reliability. KR remains committed to providing strong technical support for the development and safe adoption of alternative fuel vessels.”