Guidelines for fuel tank arrangements for methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled ships issued by IACS

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published new Unified Interpretation GF20 on fuel tank arrangements for methyl/ethyl alcohol-fueled vessels.

Fuel tanks cannot be placed in accommodation or Category A machinery spaces. Tanks near machinery spaces need a 600mm wide cofferdam with A60 insulation. Integral fuel tanks should generally have cofferdams, except below the waterline or next to other fuel tanks. On open decks, tanks must be protected from damage and spills contained. Chemical tankers don't need cofferdams for fuel tanks but must ensure adjacent cargo compatibility through risk assessment.

This UI applies to ships contracted for construction from 1 July 2025.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

Arrangements of Fuel Tanks in Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol Fuelled Vessels