On October 23, 2024, under clear autumn skies in Qidong, Jiangsu province, the steel cutting ceremony for the world’s first 30,000cbm LPG accumulator was held. The accumulator is being fabricated by Jiangsu Watts Energy Engineering Co., Ltd. ("WE") for AC-INOX GmbH ("AC-INOX").

Over 20 guests attended the event, including representatives from AltaGas, from AC-INOX (Mr. Sascha Werner General Manager, Mr. Martin Dollinger Senior Design Manager),  from Hartmann Group (Mr. Long Yefei Manager of Greater China Region), representatives from inspection bodies ABS and ASME,and senior executives from WE, including Mr. Wang Lijiang (Chairman), Mr. Yan Zhengyun (Deputy Chairman and CEO), Mr.Zhang Hongbiao (Deputy General Manager).

The steel cutting ceremony marks another breakthrough for WE in the field of green energy and chemical industry and it offers a new solution for cryogenic liquefied gas storage and transportation.

A total of three LPG accumulators, each with a capacity of 30,000cbm, are being constructed from specialized low-temperature steel in full compliance with ASME code. These accumulators feature a horizontal cylindrical tank design, capable of storing multiple types of gas. The project represents the pinnacle of fully and semi-pressurized tank design and fabrication techniques within the industry.

Since 2015, amid the global shipbuilding industry downturn, WE has actively pursued transformation and technological innovation. Over the past decade, WE has achieved notable success in the development, design, and construction of large-scale energy systems and specialized offshore engineering equipment. Its marine and onshore liquefied gas tanks cover a range of liquefied cargoes, including LPG, LNG, LEG, and LCO2. In addition, WE has developed and delivered advanced green and carbon-reduction products such as Cargo Handling Systems (CHS), Fuel Gas Supply Systems (FGSS), and Carbon Capture Systems (CCS), setting numerous industry milestones and global records.

AC-INOX, a world-leading EPC contractor with over 30 years of experience, specializes in the development and design of cutting-edge petrochemical technologies for both onshore and offshore applications. Through its close collaboration with WE, several fully and semi-refrigerated storage tanks have already been successfully delivered. These achievements not only fill critical gaps in the industry but also mark key milestones in the enduring and seamless partnership between the two companies.

Following the successful delivery of previous fully and semi-refrigerated liquid cargo tanks, this 30,000cbm LPG accumulator stands as yet another world-first project, showcasing an advanced design concept. This project is a testament to the long-term collaboration between WE and AC-INOX, with both companies remaining committed to driving innovation and contributing to the advancement of global green energy transportation.