ABS has issued an approval in principle (AIP) to Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) for its HyfloWind Float, a hybrid floating offshore wind platform concept, the classification society said on Thursday.
ABS described the HyfloWind Float as a novel structure intended to improve production efficiency and streamline deployment of floating wind projects. The design incorporates a concrete-based steel composite configuration, diverging from conventional all-steel platforms. According to ABS, the approach is aimed at facilitating fabrication in markets with limited steel manufacturing capacity while reducing costs linked to steel imports.
The company said integrating a steel frame with the concrete structure helps reduce overall weight.
Rob Langford, ABS vice president of global offshore renewables, said innovation was critical as offshore wind scales globally. “Innovation is essential as the global offshore wind industry seeks to scale and provide countries with renewable and reliable energy sources. The HyfloWind Float represents a groundbreaking method for constructing floating wind platforms, empowering nations to leverage regional materials and labor. ABS is proud to support pioneering developments like SHI’s platform,” he said.
Ahn Young-Kyu, vice president at Samsung Heavy Industries, said the concept is designed for customers seeking to maximise local content. “This hybrid floating solution is tailored to meet the needs of customers who prioritize local content,” he said. “Together with our existing steel models, we are establishing a flexible supply system to support global offshore wind expansion, including key markets across Asia.”
ABS said it continues to provide offshore services and assess new technologies to help operators manage assets safely in evolving offshore environments.
