Wärtsilä Gas Solutions has been contracted by Hyundai Heavy Industries to supply cargo handling and fuel gas supply systems for two VLECs. The vessels, ordered by a Malaysian shipowner, are specified for large-scale ethane handling. The order was booked by Wärtsilä in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The scope includes the cargo handling system process plant and fuel gas supply, with full integration into the vessel’s design. Functional safety and operational efficiency are prioritized for loading/unloading and bunkering operations.
The collaboration with HHI continues to bring advanced equipment to the new generation of gas carriers. The contract reaffirms the trend of Korean shipyards relying on consolidated suppliers for critical subsystems. For VLEC owners, selecting proven solutions reduces technical and commercial risks associated with cryogenic hydrocarbon operations.
Scope: engineering, equipment, instrumentation, and HMI control.
The integrated cargo control system incorporates routines for SIL/IEC safety and specific alarms for ethane operations. Event traceability and telemetry will facilitate predictive maintenance and performance analysis.
The HMI platform will be designed to interoperate with ECDIS and vessel management systems.
The delivery of equipment and instrumentation in March 2027 requires coordinated logistical planning and FAT/SAT testing between Wärtsilä and HHI. The commissioning phase will be crucial for validating operational parameters under real load conditions.
Competitive advantage: experience and global VLEC leadership.
Wärtsilä stands out for its expertise in cargo handling systems for gas carriers, a decisive factor in the award. According to Harald Øverland, the contract confirms their leading position in this segment. Repeat orders from HHI reflect technical confidence and adherence to deadlines.
The competitive advantage translates into shorter port operation times and increased vessel availability. Optimized cargo control and gas supply reduce energy consumption and the risk of inadvertent emissions during bunkering.
The focus on integrated solutions and international standards facilitates acceptance by classification societies and port authorities, mitigating regulatory friction in different operating markets.
Timeline: shipyard delivery scheduled for March 2027
Wärtsilä has scheduled equipment delivery to the shipyard for March 2027, marking a crucial stage for clear FAT and assembly line installation. The timeline demands strict adherence to manufacturing, testing, and logistics schedules. Any deviation would impact keel-laying and vessel delivery dates.
The schedule foresees close coordination for integrated testing and commissioning before sea trials. Planning includes validation of mechanical, electrical, and control interfaces with the vessel’s systems.
With the planned delivery, the parties aim to complete the necessary tests and certifications for safe ethane operation in VLEC environments, aligning commissioning with shipowner expectations and international standards.
Source and photo: https://www.wartsila.com/