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Side-by-side loading and discharge of LNG carriers from or to an offshore floating or fixed terminal is considered feasible in benign waters, but not currently undertaken. Currently Chiksan type loading arms consisting of fixed pipes and swivels with relatively limited operating envelope are available for regular loading and discharge operations. The offshore terminals under development are all proposed with a marine version of such loading arms but flexible hoses is currently being developed for commercial use. A tandem or bow-to-stern transfer system should increase regularity and operability even further, in particular for more exposed locations.

Höegh LNG believes that finding a reliable solution to this “missing link” is of crucial importance, and a concerted industry effort should be made to develop and standardise such equipment. Developments such as the flexible hose by Technip and the hose connectors by Amplitude LNG, should advance a reliable bow-to-stern transfer system.

The ALLS JIP aims to develop a system for transfer of LNG through a flexible hose (Technip) with specially designed end-connectors. The possibility for a reliable stern-to-bow transfer system will greatly improve the operating envelope of loading and discharge of LNG in open sea conditions. The equipment will also have an important safety function, allowing emergency transfers of cargo at sea, improving the already high safety standars of the industry.

A full scale test plant at Gaz de France’s Montoir de Bretagne receiving terminal is under construction.

Höegh LNG is also participating in JIP Programme for a floating version of the Technip flexible hose. The aim of this JIP is to develop a floating fexible hose which can be used for offshore transfer of LNG where the hose is connected either to the LNG carriers midship manifold or to a specially design bow manifold.