TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING Receives Approval in Principle for Methanol Dual-Fuel Vessel Design
TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING Co., Ltd. has recently achieved a significant milestone by receiving the Approval in Principle (AiP) from Nippon Kaiji Kyodai (ClassNK) for their methanol dual-fuel vessel design. This design is aimed at retrofitting existing heavy oil vessels and was developed in collaboration with the Maersk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.
The design, based on the KAMSARMAX standard design, a medium-sized bulk carrier, underwent detailed studies to determine the optimal placement of methanol fuel tanks. After evaluating various layout options, including aft, bottom, and central tank arrangements, the decision was made to place the tanks in the cargo hold.
ClassNK and a Hazard Identification Study (HAZID) reviewed the design based on this configuration, confirming its technical feasibility and safety, ultimately leading to the AiP approval.
Medium-sized bulk carriers, such as the KAMSARMAX vessels, play a significant role in the global fleet, representing approximately 30% of all bulk carriers. With a long operational lifespan, retrofitting existing vessels with decarbonized fuels is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Methanol, a liquid fuel that is easy to store and handle onboard, offers lower emissions compared to traditional marine fuels, making it a promising alternative for the shipping industry. The AiP for this methanol dual-fuel vessel design is a step towards promoting the adoption of methanol fuel and supporting the industry’s decarbonization efforts.
In a statement, Mr. OKUMURA Sachio, Representative Director, President, and CEO of TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING, highlighted the company’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. He emphasized the importance of methanol as a marine fuel with significant growth potential in the future.
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