Press Release

Title:

ClassNK issues approval in principle (AiP) for the methanol fuel tank design concept developed by SRC Group

1 October 2025

Tokyo - ClassNK has issued an approval in principle (AiP) for a methanol fuel tank design concept developed by SRC Group. The certification demonstrates its feasibility from regulatory and safety perspectives.

With the growing adoption of alternative fuels such as methanol in the maritime industry, the development of safe and efficient fuel storage solutions has become increasingly important. The design concept enables efficient utilization of fuel tank capacity while meeting safety requirements by eliminating the need for additional structural space for a cofferdam (*1).

ClassNK carried out a design review of the design concept based on “Part A Guidelines for Ships Using Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol as Fuels (Edition 3.0.0)” of the “Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels”. ClassNK issued AiP upon confirming the feasibility of key design, including the arrangement of methanol fuel tanks and fuel supply systems, in terms of regulatory compliance.

Furthermore, in anticipation of future application to actual vessels and to facilitate the final approval process, ClassNK presented the concept overview and key technical considerations to the Panama Maritime Authority prior to the issuance of the AiP and received its acknowledgment.

ClassNK will continue to contribute to new technology development and social implementation, including safety assessments.

Approval in Principle (AiP):
At the initial stage of designing or before the specific target ship to be implemented is decided, the design is examined based on the existing regulations such as international conventions and ship classification rules, and an Approval in Principle (AiP) is issued as proof of conformity with requirements. It also prevents rework of regulatory aspects in the post-process, shortens the examination time at the time of class registration, and can be used as a technical basis for external appeal of the design status. For more information, visit our website.

For inquiries about this press release:
ClassNK Technical Solution Department
Tel: +81-3-5226-2042
E-mail: tsd@classnk.or.jp

For media-related inquiries:
ClassNK Public Relations Team
4-7 Kioi-Cho, Chiyoda-Ku, Tokyo 102-8567 Japan
E-mail: eod@classnk.or.jp