Page 36 - 2022 - Q2 - Minerva in Focus

MINERVA GAS Ship Shore
Compatibility Study
(SSCS)
by Foteini Volaki
Terminal Compatibility Officer
Minerva Gas Inc.
36 MINERVA IN FOCUS – ISSUE 20 / Q2 2022
Terminal compatibility studies and mooring analyses are conducted by the ded-
icated in-house compatibility team of Minerva Gas, which works closely with the
terminal representatives well before a vessel calls at a terminal to ensure smooth
and unhindered vessel operations.
Prior to being scheduled for a call at the LNG Technical compatibility:
terminal, a vessel should have successfully The study begins with the exchange of informa-
undergone the compatibility analysis since tion on manuals, forms, drawings, certificates,
only vessels that have completed this proce- drawings, and checklists that contain the tech-
dure will be authorized to load/unload LNG nical data and safety specifications of both the
cargo at the terminal. The Ship Shore Com- LNG ship and the LNG terminal. Some of the most
patibility Study aims to establish a structured significant elements checked in this step include:
process to evaluate the LNG carrier and LNG
terminal’s capability to deliver and receive - The vessel and terminal’s physical dimen-
LNG safely and efficiently. Compatibility sions - particulars
covers a wide range of topics because of - Parallel body for adequate fendering and
the complexity and peculiarity of Liquified sufficient contact area
Natural Gas as a cryogenic cargo. Therefore, - Gangway position, type, and configuration for
checking all its different aspects is crucial safe access on a clear gangway landing area
to ensure a flawless operation without in- - Manifold and short distance pieces spec-
cidents or accidents. The primary objective ifications and arrangement for berthing
of a vessel’s approval procedure is to check position and the capability for emergency
its operational and technical compatibility release (PERC)
in terms of physical dimensions, mechani- - Cargo and Spray Pumps specifications
cal design, safety, communication, custody - Strainers Mesh Size for protecting the cargo
transfer measurements, mooring, and many handling equipment from debris
more, but also commercial and insurance as- - Mooring equipment and requirements for
pects that could affect the vessel’s operation mooring ropes/tails
and performance. - Communication system and Mooring Loads
Monitoring System (MLM)
Although the steps that constitute the ship- - Emergency Shut Down System (ESD) to be
to-shore compatibility process are more used, configuration and activation
or less the same, it is essential to keep in - Loading arms and gangway clearances based
mind that terminals have different technical, on their working ranges and extreme drafts
regulatory and commercial requirements. - Cranes and lifting appliances
Therefore, our goal is to always meet these - Primary and Secondary means of Tank pres-
requirements in the best possible way to en- sure control
sure the vessel’s acceptance and approval to - Compressors Specifications
the satisfaction of stakeholders/charterers. - Fire Fighting Equipment