ABS Issues AIP and Completes Basic Design Review for Samsung Heavy Industries’ FLNG Topsides

ABS has issued approval in principle (AIP) and completed a basic design review (BDR) for Samsung Heavy Industries’ (SHI) natural gas liquefaction system developed for the topsides of a floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) unit.

The certifications were presented at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok and cover the full scope of process systems required for FLNG operations.

Review covers SHI’s complete topside process systems

The topside facilities include SENSE, SHI’s proprietary liquefaction technology designed to cool natural gas to extremely low temperatures for storage and transportation.

SENSE had previously received AIP from ABS. The latest AIP and BDR assess SHI’s own front-end engineering design (FEED) for the broader topside facilities and confirm its feasibility for the intended FLNG application.

The BDR involved a more detailed technical assessment against applicable ABS Rules and requirements.

Matt Tremblay, ABS Senior Vice President, Global Markets, said: “The development of new liquefaction technologies is a meaningful step for the FLNG supply chain. ABS is proud to support SHI as this review serves as a foundation to move this technology from concept toward real project deployment.”

Joonho Min, Vice President, Offshore Engineering Team, Samsung Heavy Industries, said: “This ABS approval validates Samsung Heavy Industries’ proprietary SENSE liquefaction technology and our comprehensive engineering capabilities. It establishes a strong foundation for us to independently execute complete FLNG EPC projects.”

ABS review supports FLNG technology development

The approval comes as new liquefaction and offshore gas technologies continue to be developed for the FLNG sector.

By completing the AIP and BDR, ABS has assessed SHI’s design against its technical requirements, providing a basis for further development of the topside system toward potential project deployment.

FLNG units integrate gas processing, liquefaction and storage facilities on floating platforms, enabling natural gas to be processed and converted into LNG offshore before transportation by LNG carriers.