Expeditionyacht.org

We’d like to be able to refuel a helicopter on our vessel and carry jet fuel for that purpose.  Obviously, dealing with jet fuel, while not nearly as dangerous as avgas -it’s actually more like diesel - requires a lot of extra safety measures.  That’s why we will make the arrangements compliant with Lloyds Register and MCA LY2 rules.
 

Basically, we plan to create a small platform hinged from the stern to have the required outside-deck-only access to the pump room.  It also gives the chef the option to receive stores at the back when we are at anchor.  And, it’s a place to temporary keep some garbage if needed.  It will only require one watertight door + the access door to the pump room (with a VERY small pomp).

The pump room will have a small approved pump and the required ventilation.  Below an illustration of how we plan to convert our stern diesel wing tanks into compliant jet fuel tanks.

By building a cofferdam in/around the tank we should be able to comply with the rules that require avoiding direct contact between jet fuel tank and the hull and a cofferdam space all around the tank that can be checked on leaks and has an appropriate drainage. In our case, any leakage would end up in the dirty oil tank.

Update: October, 2009: after consulting with a Lloyds surveyor, we decided that instead of building the cofferdam from steel, we’ll create space to install a bladder tank.  Once this tank is put into place, it will be filled with foam to keep it in shape even when empty.  Lloyds Register doesn’t like flexible connections so they’ll be rigid, requiring a bladder that maintains its shape.

Below a view from the rear. As soon as we get the OK for the concept from the Germanischer Lloyd, we’ll design the structure.