Starting Development of Next-generation Coal Carrier

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines announced that MOL, Tohoku Electric Power Co and Namura Shipbuilding have jointly earned an Approval in Principle (AIP) from Lloyd's Register for the design of an liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered coal carrier.

The three companies have moved ahead with this project and recently conducted a Hazard Identification Study (HAZID), and finished the basic design.

MOL noted that the AiP marks Japan's first jointly obtained by three companies - a shipping company, cargo owner, and shipbuilder - for a vessel powered by LNG.

The vessel design ensures sufficient cargo capacity without making the hull larger by installing the LNG fuel tank at the stern, the partners say.

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.

MOL said it intends to forge ahead with the new coal carrier design, which adopts expertise and technology gained through promotion of the R&D project "ISHIN NEXT - MOL Smart Ship Project".