ClassNK grants AiP for SRC Group Methanol fuel tank design

Left to Right: Ryohei Sakai (Project Hull), Technical Solution Department, ClassNK, Alex Vainokivi, Innovation Manager, SRC Group and Ginette Sophia Testa Barnett, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Panama to the IMO

ClassNK has issued an approval in principle (AiP) for a methanol fuel tank concept developed by SRC Group. The certification confirms the design’s feasibility from regulatory and safety perspectives.

As the maritime industry increasingly adopts alternative fuels, safe and efficient storage solutions are essential. SRC Group’s design maximizes fuel tank capacity and eliminates the need for extra structural space for a cofferdam.

ClassNK reviewed the concept against its Part A Guidelines for Ships Using Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol as Fuels (Edition 3.0.0). The AiP validates key design elements, including tank arrangement and fuel supply systems, for regulatory compliance.

Before granting the AiP, ClassNK shared the concept with the Panama Maritime Authority, which acknowledged the design.

ClassNK will continue supporting new technology development, safety assessments, and the social implementation of alternative fuel solutions.