New design features relatively small LNG tanks
Japanese shipbuilder IHI Corp has been reported as saying that it has developed a low-emission containership using either LNG or standard bunker fuel.
According to a Nikkei report IHI has develop proprietary technology to overcome what has widely been seen as drawback to LNG power for merchant vessels. It appears the IHI design features relatively small LNG tanks, thus reducing the encroachment on carrying capacity. IHI says that while burning LNG the vessel produces no sulphur oxides and emits 80% less nitrogen oxides than a comparable vessel using heavy oil.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries and K Line are developing vessels that use LNG as fuel, the report notes. IHI’s marketing strategy is to overcome worries about high initial cost by focusing on the lower operating costs when using LNG.
Source: World Bunkering
