Chinese shipbuilder New Times Shipbuilding (NTS) recently held a launching ceremony for two liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel bulk carriers. The vessels, owned by Himalaya Shipping, are part of a larger order of twelve 210,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) dual-fuel bulkers from NTS. This ceremony marked the launch of the seventh and eighth vessels in the series.
The two ships, named Mount Bandiera and Mount Hua, have an overall length of 299.95 meters, a length between two pillars of 294.75 meters, a molded width of 50.00 meters, a molded depth of 25.20 meters, a design draft of 18.40 meters, and a structural draft of 18.48 meters. By utilizing LNG as fuel, these vessels are expected to reduce emissions and comply with the latest environmental standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The ships will not only run on LNG but will also be equipped with scrubbers to enable them to use high-sulfur fuel oil as well as low-sulfur fuel oil. This design also allows for future conversion to next-generation fuels. In addition, the vessels will feature ABB’s shaft generators with a power-take-off (PTO) solution, incorporating new drive systems and permanent magnet technology.
The main engine for these ships is the MAN ME-GI high-pressure LNG dual-fuel engine, which, in combination with the in-line shaft generator, offers low methane slip.
This recent development highlights the industry’s efforts to adopt cleaner and more sustainable fuel sources for shipping operations. With the use of LNG and other environmentally friendly technologies, the shipping industry can make significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint and meeting the IMO’s emission regulations.
Sources:
– New Times Shipbuilding
– Himalaya Shipping