The classification society ABS has given approval in principle (AIP) to a design for the first Newcastlemax bulk carrier driven by methanol.
The dual-fuel, 210,000 dwt vessel was created by CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding CO., LTD and China Ship Design & Research Center Co., Ltd (CSDC). It also has a methanol tank capacity to fully exceed endurance requirements on methanol fuel alone.
In order to help the sector transition to low- and zero-carbon operations, methanol as a marine fuel is a promising fuel. ABS collaborates on numerous methanol-powered projects with eminent operators throughout the globe. Patrick Ryan, Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and Technology at ABS, expressed his pleasure in using his knowledge and experience to promote this avant-garde bulk carrier design.
“CSDC recognized the viability of using methanol as a ship’s decarbonization fuel as early as 2016 and has since continually conducted relevant design and research. We incorporated our expertise and experiences into the research and development of this ship to provide it with a strong technical foundation and high level of dependability. As ship technology is constantly improved, we want to offer our customers more social and commercial value,” according to CSDC General Manager Yu Dexin.
