Oman launches new LNG repair partnership

The new package is being launched with DSME subsidiary DSEC. The services will cover areas including cargo containment systems and the supply chain of various materials such as INVAR, insulation boxes, membranes, prefabricated panels and cryogenic safety valves.

ODC is also investing in new facilities which will see the renovation of its cryogenic shop to enable it to repair up to four LNG carriers at any one time.

Yong Duk Park, CEO of ODC, said: “Working with DSME, we believe we have developed one of the most advanced LNG repair packages in the world. Our expansion into LNG carriers will further be strengthened by our new license to support the French engineering firm, Gaztransport & Technigaz (GTT), which specialises in cargo containment systems for high-end LNG carriers.”

ODC is based in Duqm, Oman’s planned new ports and logistics mega-city. Since 2011 the 1,300,000m² repair yard has docked more than 230 vessels, and is said to offer perfect conditions for painting work.

“We have worked enormously hard to develop a robust track record working on a wide variety of ships from Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) to container ships to LNG and LPG carriers to chemical carriers dredgers, ro-ros and barges. We can now show the shipping industry we not only have world class facilities, which include our massive dry docks which can accommodate any size of vessel, but we have the experience too,” Mr Park explained.

The company says its geographical location – in the heart of the Asia-to-Europe shipping route – plays a huge part in its success.

“We can further slash costs and the time required for drydocking as vessels do not need to greatly deviate their course. This can save days in time, and a huge amount of money, which is such a key factor for shipping operators balancing tight budgets,” added Mr Park.