Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. made an announcement on June 6, 2023, revealing the successful completion of technological development for a cargo tank (CCS: Cargo Containment System) designed for large-scale liquefied hydrogen carriers.
When it comes to transporting hydrogen across the sea, a crucial aspect is the need to cool it to a chilling -253°C, reducing its volume to a mere 1/800th of its gaseous state, while ensuring long-lasting preservation.
This breakthrough involves the creation of Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ very own innovative CCS known as the “CC61H type.” Notably spherical in shape, this tank boasts a smaller outer surface area compared to its internal volume, effectively minimizing external heat infiltration. Moreover, its dual-layered structure enables a two-step insulation process, resulting in exceptional thermal performance.
The company’s ambitious plan revolves around the commercialization of CCS specifically designed for large liquefied hydrogen carriers, characterized by a tank capacity of 40,000m3 per unit, totaling a remarkable 160,000m3.
Furthermore, meticulous attention was given to ensure the structural materials and thicknesses of heat-insulating materials aligned seamlessly with the dimensions required for actual ships. Extensive verifications were conducted to ascertain the feasibility of assembly, welding, and insulation material installation.
To conclude the final phase of development, rigorous tests were carried out using a prototype tank, encompassing gas replacement, cooling, and heating processes. These evaluations confirmed the remarkable efficiency of inert gas for replacing the vast space inside the tank while ensuring the desired thermal insulation performance as planned.
Looking ahead, Kawasaki Heavy Industries remains steadfast in their commitment to advancing the practical implementation of large-scale liquefied hydrogen carriers, as part of their ongoing efforts to realize the commercialization of the liquefied hydrogen supply chain by 2030.