New Hydrogen Carrier Design Revealed in Norway

Norwegian shipping technology firm CryoVac has obtained approval in principle (AiP) from the classification society DNV for its vacuum insulation system designed for liquid hydrogen (LH2). This innovation offers a new method for transporting liquid hydrogen in the emerging seaborne trade sector.

Aage Bjorn Andersen, CEO of CryoVac. Stated that the AiP marks a significant milestone for CryoVac as they bring their vacuum insulation system to market. It allows them to engage with shipowners and designers eager to be leaders in the shipping of liquid hydrogen. He further stated that their hexagonal vacuum panels form continuous surfaces when welded together, creating a hybrid insulation system. This enables the use of simple prismatic tanks for LH2 transport, providing efficient insulation with a very low boil-off rate, while maintaining the steel’s integrity.

CryoVac has introduced the world’s first LH2 containment design, featuring prismatic tanks for transporting liquid hydrogen by ship. Central to the design is the proprietary CryoPan hexagonal vacuum insulation panel. The system consists of an externally insulated IMO Type B-inspired self-supporting prismatic tank placed in an inert and insulated hold. CryoPan panels are welded together and applied to both the tank and the hold surfaces for superior insulation.

The next phase for CryoVac involves developing a 45,000 cu m long-haul LH2 carrier, featuring three 15,000 cu m cargo holds. The goal is for the vessel to both transport liquid hydrogen and be powered by hydrogen, achieving zero-emission shipping.

There is significant global interest in finding a safe and cost-effective solution for shipping liquid hydrogen. This technology gap is what they aim to address which will be done by engaging with shipowners and hydrogen producers who share their vision of creating a global liquid hydrogen supply chain, added Andersen.