Japanese MOL, Tohoku Electric Power, and Namura Shipbuilding have jointly earned an Approval in Principle (AIP) from UK-based Lloyd’s Register for the design of an LNG-powered coal carrier.
The three companies have moved ahead with this project and recently conducted a Hazard Identification Study (HAZID), finishing the basic design. HAZID is an assessment method to identify potential risk sources and occurrence frequencies for the conceptual design, and develop measures to reduce these risks.
As noted, this is Japan’s first joint acquisition by three companies – a shipping company, cargo owner, and shipbuilder – of an AIP for a vessel powered by LNG and aims to align with stricter standards on exhaust emissions from merchant vessels taking effect globally.
The vessel design ensures sufficient cargo capacity without making the hull larger by installing the LNG fuel tank at the stern. In addition, the study is pursued based on installation of the tank cover with an eye toward preventing an onboard fire from spreading to the LNG fuel tank while streamlining inspection work.
This new-generation coal carrier adopts expertise gained through promotion of the ‘MOL Smart Ship Project‘, focused on developing two fields of technologies: safer vessel operation and reduction of environmental footprint.
