China: RSHI Splashes 400.000 DWT Very Large Ore Carrier VALE SOHAR

Oman Shipping Company’s 400,000 DWT Very Large Ore Carrier (VLOC), the VALE SOHAR, was floated out of the construction docks and transferred to the final outfitting berth at Rongsheng Heavy Industries shipyard in China.

VALE SOHAR joins VALE LIWA, floated out on March 19th, as the second in a series of four VLOCs currently under construction for Oman Shipping Company at the yard. The vessels will be on long term time charter to Vale from shipments from Brazil to Sohar, Oman.

The Valemax vessels, also known as “very large ore carriers” or VLOCs, have a capacity of 400,000 deadweight tons.

400,000 DWT VLOC is the world’s first ore carrier with the largest tonnage. It is reported that this ship’s total length is 360m, with the width of 65m and depth of 30.4m . This vessel is designed with lower oil consumption and carbide emissions, it is more environmental and energy conserving. Speaking of performance, it is superior to other kinds of ore carriers in the current market, so it is extremely favored by ship-owners.

[mappress]

Shipbuilding Tribune Staff, April 9, 2012; Image: omanship