Gas Carrier

(Russian, gazovoz), a ship that transports liquefied gas (for example, propane, butane, methane, and ammonia).

The gas is transported in tanks at a pressure of 1-1.8 meganewtons per sq m (10-18 kilograms-force per sq cm), either highly cooled or moderately compressed and cooled. The load capacity of modern gas carriers ranges from several dozen tons to 25,000-35,000 tons, which may have a volume of 70,000 cu m or more. The tanks of gas carriers are cylindrical, spherical, or flat-surfaced and may have inner or outer thermal insulation. Gas carriers are equipped with unloading systems, systems for bleeding off gases, and systems for the transmission of inert gases into tanks. They are outfitted with fire-fighting apparatus and with remote control equipment to regulate the condition of the gas (its level, temperature, and pressure).