POSCO has announced that its high manganese steel will be used in the fuel tank of an LNG-fuelled bulk carrier under construction by Hyundai Mipo Dockyard. The steel contains approximately 20% manganese, which helps it to store LNG at temperatures of -162°C. POSCO will commence the supply of the steel in 3Q16.
The new vessel will be capable of carrying 50 000 t of freight. It will also feature an energy-efficient, eco-friendly, dual-fuel capable engine. This engine will be able to operate on both bunker C oil and LNG. POSCO claims that the vessel will be completed by the end of 2017. As of 2018, it will carry limestone for POSCO from Gangwon-do to Gwangyang (South Korea).
POSCO added that, based on a close relationship with domestic shipbuilders – including Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) – it will make joint efforts to establish a global, overseas market for its high manganese steel.
Edited from press release by David Rowlands