INTERNATIONAL GAS CARRIER CODE (IGC CODE) Application – Various Designs &
Construction
The International Gas Carrier Code (IGC Code) establishes standards for the safe carriage of
liquefied gases and other dangerous substances in bulk. Here's a detailed overview of its
application, designs, and construction standards:
1. Application of the IGC Code
The IGC Code applies to:
a. Applicability
New Gas Carriers: Built on or after July 1, 1986.
Existing Gas Carriers: Constructed before this date but significantly modified must
comply with relevant provisions.
Ships carrying substances listed in the code, such as:
o Liquefied natural gas (LNG)
o Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
o Ethylene, ammonia, and other flammable/toxic gases.
b. Exceptions
Does not apply to warships, naval auxiliaries, or non-commercial government ships.
Non-gas ships carrying gas cargoes in portable tanks are outside the scope of the IGC
Code.
2. Various Designs of Gas Carriers
The IGC Code categorizes gas carriers based on design and containment systems to ensure the
safety of cargo, crew, and the environment.
a. Ship Types
1. Type 1G:
o Maximum safety level for highly hazardous cargo.
o Designed for cargoes requiring the most stringent containment.
2. Type 2G:
o Moderate safety level for less hazardous cargo compared to Type 1G.
o Smaller ship or containment volumes allowed.
3. Type 2PG:
o Similar to Type 2G but with enhanced protection against penetration damage.
4. Type 3G:
o For less hazardous cargo, focusing on basic structural integrity and containment.
b. Containment System Designs
The code defines containment systems for liquefied gases based on their temperature, pressure,
and physical state. Common designs include:
1. Independent Tanks:
o Type A: Prismatic, designed for atmospheric pressure cargo, with secondary
barriers to prevent leaks.
o Type B: Spherical or cylindrical, designed with enhanced structural analysis to
eliminate secondary barriers.
o Type C: Fully pressurized or semi-pressurized cylindrical tanks.
2. Integrated Systems:
o Membrane tanks supported by the ship’s hull with thin primary barriers, suitable
for cryogenic temperatures.
o Reliant on insulation and careful design to minimize boil-off.
3. Semi-Refrigerated Tanks:
o Combines refrigeration and moderate pressure containment for versatile cargo
handling.
4. Full-Pressurized Tanks:
o Cylindrical or spherical tanks for carrying gases at high pressure and ambient
temperature.
3. Construction Standards
The IGC Code outlines detailed construction requirements for gas carriers to ensure operational
safety and structural integrity:
a. Material Selection
Use of materials suitable for extreme temperatures (cryogenic conditions).
Materials must resist brittleness and chemical corrosion.
Special steels and alloys for tanks, pipelines, and insulation systems.
b. Hull Structure
Double hull construction for added protection.
Collision protection to safeguard containment systems.
Enhanced damage stability requirements to minimize spill risks in emergencies.
c. Cargo Containment
Tanks designed to withstand loads during operations, including dynamic forces from
cargo sloshing.
Adequate insulation to prevent temperature loss and reduce boil-off rates.
d. Gas Handling Equipment
Closed loading/unloading systems with vapor return lines to prevent emissions.
Boil-off gas management systems (e.g., reliquefaction or use as fuel).
Emergency shutdown systems to isolate leaks or overpressures.
e. Fire Safety
Fire detection and fixed extinguishing systems for cargo areas.
Water spray systems to cool deck and containment systems in fire scenarios.
f. Venting and Pressure Relief
Pressure relief systems to manage excess cargo pressure.
Controlled venting arrangements to prevent release into confined spaces.
g. Stability and Subdivision
Compliance with intact and damage stability rules under SOLAS.
Sufficient subdivision to prevent flooding and capsizing in case of accidents.
Conclusion
The IGC Code's comprehensive approach to design and construction ensures that gas carriers
operate safely while minimizing environmental risks. The emphasis on containment systems,
structural robustness, and operational safety has made the IGC Code a cornerstone of the global
gas transport industry.
