Kongsberg Maritime has developed a new LNG Cargo Handling Simulator, designed to assist the safe, efficient and profitable transportation of LNG, through detailed and realistic training scenarios.
Spherical and Membrane type
The requirement for the training of crew aboard both existing and new LNG vessels of both Spherical and Membrane type continues on its steep upwards curve. Assuming all planned production projects start on time the demand for new vessels will reach between 200 and 210 by the end of 2010. At its peak we are talking about 85 new ships a year. This will create major challenges for the training of such a volume of crew in a limited time, which is further compounded by the complexity of the LNG operations. Safe, efficient and profitable transportation of LNG depends on these crews being fully versed in these Cargo Handling operations.
Basic and advanced training
The CHS-LNG-M is ideally suited for the training of junior officers in basic cargo operations and senior officers in complicated full-scale cargo operations (loading/discharging/cooling down/venting). It is a high-fidelity real-time model designed to train crews to the highest standard, ensuring operational safety and efficiency.
All aspects of the cargo handling
The CHS-LNG M is based on the latest LNG vessels, and the model consists of four Technigaz and Gaztransport design membrane tanks able to take fully refrigerated cargoes. It uses real-time utilizing an extremely sophisticated mathematical gas model comprising components of Methane, Ethane, Propane and Butane as in real life. The model is capable of simulating boil-off rates, over pressure and cooling: All aspects of the cargo handling procedure that can cause massive damage to tanks or hull structure if operated incorrectly.
The sophisticated technical design of the simulation is presented as close to real-life as possible. In addition to this, the CHS benefits from superlative pedagogical processes, providing the best learning experience for students.
‘E-Coach’ system
At the core is an advanced 'E-Coach' system, which automatically provides advice and feedback on student actions during exercises. This enables Self Paced training modules (web or classroom based), providing greater flexibility for both student and teacher.
On a larger scale, a high number of student stations can be connected to a single instructor station and an extremely user-friendly interface helps the instructor to define which information is available to the students. This assists instructors in planning and structuring lessons to gain the most out of the CHS-LNG-M according to time schedules.
User-friendly instructor and assessment system
Instructors have a flexible array of tools at their disposal, which can be used to inject different scenarios into exercises, usually to a set, structured teaching plan. Decision making experience and skills are high priorities when handling complex LNG operations and the CHS-LNG-M Membrane supports training in these essential skills, having the capability to provide an extensive number of potential malfunctions and alarm conditions. This flexibility together with the Very High Fidelity models displaying numerous variables and information on screen form the basis for this essential part of the training. A user-friendly instructor and assessment system enables results to be collated in an efficient manner to provide accurate progress reporting.
The combination of sophisticated technical models to simulate the vessel and powerful tools for instructors to provide the 'lesson' are the key features that enable CHS-LNG-M to train students for safe, efficient and profitable transportation of LNG.