tinue to be at the cutting edge of tech-
nology. We classed the first ever LNG
vessel, recently we classed the first ever
LNG ROV offshore loading and dis-
charge vessel, and we shall continue to
lead the way.
What do you consider the top priorities -
project wise - for your company in the com-
ing 12 months?
ABS: The challenges are continuous.
In addition to implementing the new
Common Structural Rules, ABS main-
tains a very active research and develop-
ment department and program. At any
one time as many as 100 different
research programs may be in process
covering a very broad range of subjects.
Current initiatives include topics as
diverse as experimental work for
dynamic material properties, hydro-
elasticity analysis and structure respons-
es of LNG containments systems, the
development of sophisticated software
for the optimization of propulsion shaft
alignment, the development of a relia-
bility-based structural assessment tool
for analyzing the hull girder of existing
ships, and the establishment of appropri-
ate standards for a ship vibration nota-
tion based on a defined vibration analy-
sis and measurement procedure.
The research projects cover all ship
types and sizes in addition to facilities
used for the exploration and production
of offshore energy resources. Examples
of projects related to the offshore sector
include the establishment of standards
for the application of composites to pro-
duction piping systems, and the applica-
tion of spectral-based fatigue analysis
for floating offshore structures includ-
ing low frequency effects on FPSOs.
Significant development work is also
being applied to the extension of the
ABS SafeShip life-cycle support pro-
gram including the addition of a risk-
based inspection module and a reliabili-
ty centered maintenance module. These
new tools complement and supplement
the existing hull maintenance and sur-
vey tracking SafeShip tools.
BV: We are working hard, very hard,
with a big team, to revise our rules to
meet the common rules now adopted by
IACS. To incorporate them for tankers
and bulkers, and to disseminate them
across our network and ensure our peo-
ple are fully trained to implement them,
is a major task.
LR: A major priority for all IACS soci-
eties will be harmonizing and delivering
the common Rules for tankers and bulk
carriers to the industry.
RINA: Strict management focus on the
quality of the fleet and services to
shipowners, and innovation in specialist
fields are the top priorities in our socie-
ty in the marine sector. We take provid-
ing the best quality classification as a
starting point only. We are using our
experience and research activity to inno-
vate the most advanced sectors of ship-
ping.
How is the increasing litigious nature of the
world effecting the way in which classifica-
tion societies conduct their business.
ABS: In many respects classification
societies provide a scope of services in
the public interest which could only oth-
erwise be provided by governments; but
which, in fact, relatively few govern-
26 Maritime Reporter & Engineering News
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