Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. have announced that MOL, Tohoku Electric Power Co., Inc., and Namura Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. have jointly earned an Approval in Principle (AIP) from Lloyd's Register for the design of an LNG powered coal carrier.
This is Japan's first joint acquisition by three companies – a shipping company, cargo owner, and shipbuilder – of an AIP for a vessel powered by LNG.
The vessel design ensures sufficient cargo capacity without making the hull larger by installing the LNG fuel tank at the stern. In addition, the study is pursued based on installation of the tank cover with an eye toward preventing an onboard fire from spreading to the LNG fuel tank while streamlining inspection work.