HD Hyundai Samho, ClassNK Partner on Amended IGC Code LNG Design | Mariner News

HD Hyundai Samho and ClassNK have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the joint development of an LNG carrier design that incorporates forthcoming amendments to the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code). The agreement, formalized at Gastech 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand, positions the parties to proactively integrate new regulatory requirements into future vessel designs.

This collaboration anticipates the official adoption of the IGC Code amendments by the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 112) in December 2026. Following adoption, the revised requirements are scheduled to enter into force on July 1, 2028. By beginning the technical review now, HD Hyundai Samho and ClassNK are working well ahead of the mandatory application date, signaling the significance of these upcoming changes.

The joint technical review will focus on several critical safety and operational parameters for LNG carriers. Key areas of study include emergency shutdown arrangements for valves connected to cargo tanks, material requirements for exposed cargo piping, interlocking and accumulation-pressure requirements for cargo tank pressure relief valves, and risk-based cargo tank filling limits.

This early engagement by a prominent shipyard and classification society suggests an industry push to mitigate future compliance risks and potentially enhance the safety and operational efficiency of newbuild LNG tonnage. Developing a compliant design ahead of schedule could offer HD Hyundai Samho a competitive edge in the newbuilding market, providing owners and operators with vessels that inherently meet advanced regulatory standards from delivery.