JF Fendercare demonstrated its extensive LNG STS experience, applying industry-leading safety and quality standards to the highly complex operation. Due to the extremely low temperatures of LNG cargo - at -162°C – safe and reliable operations are of paramount importance. With meticulous operation coordination from its specialist operations team, all pre-operational studies, compatibility assessments, detailed risk assessments and dynamic mooring analyses were conducted to support the STS transfer.
Ruth Christie, Product Line Director at JF Fendercare said: “Conducting the first LNG STS operation off Southwold was a great achievement and testament to the close partnerships we have with our customers, providing operational expertise – we’re delighted at the feedback received. The operation was delivered successfully and I’m proud of the effort and professionalism shown by our team, with meticulous planning, co-ordination and communication, which supported the safe delivery of this operation.”
The operation was to support a gas-up / cool-down service for an LNG carrier coming out of dry dock in readiness for her next voyage. This specialised operation involves removing the inert gas from the vessel’s storage tanks by transferring LNG to slowly reduce their temperature (to -162°C) so that the tanks are ready to safely load new cargo.
JF Fendercare also worked closely with the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) to gain all the necessary permissions from local authorities and the entire operation was overseen by JF Fendercare’s highly experienced LNG STS Superintendents.