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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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Class Society Q&A (Continued on page 50)

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