As the world accelerates its shift toward cleaner energy, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has emerged as a key player in the transition. Emitting less CO₂ when used for power generation, LNG is considered a more sustainable alternative to coal and oil. Its ability to be shipped worldwide on large, purpose-built vessels reduces reliance on pipeline gas and makes it a flexible backup for renewables during the transition to a fully decarbonized energy system. LNG is mainly transported by sea for final use on land, but it is also increasingly used to power ships – particularly cruise ships and cargo vessels – as a cleaner alternative to heavy fuel oil.
Complex challenges under extreme conditions
LNG is produced by cooling natural gas to -163°C. This reduces its volume dramatically but requires an exceptional level of insulation around the gas tanks. The insulation must consistently maintain ultra-low cryogenic temperatures to prevent “boil-off” – the unwanted evaporation of LNG during transport and storage, which can lead to significant economic losses and safety risks.
Transporting LNG by sea requires shipbuilders to design vessels around the large gas tanks from the ground up. The highly regulated and complex shipbuilding process means any delay in delivering tank insulation components can trigger costly penalties for shipyards. In this high-stakes environment, reliability and responsiveness are paramount, with customers demanding solutions that not only meet strict performance standards but also adapt to shifting construction schedules and market conditions.
WISA®-Birch plywood excels at sea
With its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and proven performance in extreme cryogenic conditions, birch plywood has emerged as the material of choice for LNG carrier insulation. UPM, a leader in this field, produces high-quality WISA-Birch plywood that meets rigorous certification standards. This plywood is used in the construction of insulation elements that encase LNG tanks, helping to maintain the extremely low temperatures required during transit. Its inherent properties – durability, dimensional stability, and lightweight construction – make it uniquely suited to the task.
The insulation technology is built upon a licensed system from the French company GTT. This technology defines how the insulation is constructed and ensures that all suppliers and shipyards adhere to strict quality controls. With ongoing technological advancements aimed at reducing the boil-off rate, the basic concept of using birch plywood has proven to be a mainstay and remains largely unchanged. Its reliability in maintaining structural integrity and thermal performance has been demonstrated over decades of service, making it a cornerstone of modern LNG carrier design today and tomorrow.