K Line, Namura pick up AIP for LNG-fuelled ore carrier concept

Japanese shipbuilder Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) has received a joint approval in principle (AIP) with compatriot Namura Shipbuilding for the concept design of an LNG-fuelled ore carrier from DNV GL.

K Line said on Monday that the work on this joint project for the development of an LNG-fuelled ore carrier complied with both environmental and actual operation requirements of second-generation WOZMAX vessels.

The LNG-fuelled ore carrier will keep almost same deadweight (250,000 dwt) and normal service speed as a WOZMAX vessel and will have enough endurance for a round-trip between Singapore and Brazil in gas fuel mode, arranging the LNG tanks in the center section of the hull.

The vessel will also achieve a Phase 3 energy efficiency design index (EEDI) by means of primary fuel changes to LNG.

As for its name, WOZMAX is an abbreviation used for optimum size vessels that can call main West Australian iron ore loading ports. When expanded the name stands for West, Oz, Max.

In addition to LNG fuel conversion, K Line studied the possibility of it being combined with a shaft generator, binary cycle power generation system, and a lithium battery to further reduce CO2 emissions. With these additions, the system can achieve an additional further four percent reduction of fuel oil consumption.

This system is considered as one of the efficient systems that will help us achieve our goals by 2050.