Oshima Shipbuilding develops new LNG-powered bulker design

Japanese shipbuilder Oshima Shipbuilding has presented its brand-new LNG-powered Oshima Ultramax 2030 bulk carrier design at the recent Nor-Shipping trade fair in Oslo.

In an attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in accordance with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) strategy, Oshima Shipbuilding and DNV GL signed long-term strategic cooperation to conduct research and development on new bulk carrier designs.

The first such design to result from the cooperation was the Oshima Ultramax 2030. The new design could lead to a 50 percent reduction in Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), the smaller the EEDI the more energy efficient the ship design is.

DNV GL said that the partners would continue cooperating through to 2030, developing and updating a road map towards the IMO zero emissions scenario.

Eiichi Hiraga, president of Oshima Shipbuilding, said: “Oshima and DNV GL have already had close cooperation for many years, resulting in close to 200 ships delivered or on order from Oshima to DNV GL class, and with this strategic agreement we want to extend this cooperation even further. We are delighted to deliver new, innovative designs together in the years to come.”

The Oshima Ultramax 2030 was developed in cooperation with leading engine manufacturer Wärtsilä. This Ultramax design is one of the most efficient bulk carrier designs to date and utilizes LNG as fuel, an optimized hull shape, and a sail to generate extra propulsion.

The design also offers ultra-low emissions in port by using solar panels and a battery to cover the hotel load during waiting times and port operations.

Trond Hodne, director of sales and marketing at DNV GL, added: “This partnership shows how much can come of this approach. The design halves the EEDI of comparable vessels and sets a new standard for low emission bulk carriers. Our relationship with Oshima stretches back many years, and we look forward to continue working together in the future.“