MHI confirms order for two LNG carriers

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd (MHI) has confirmed that it has received an order for two next-generation LNG carriers from Mitsui & Co. Ltd.

The LNG carriers feature a design that achieves significant improvements in both LNG carrying capacity and fuel performance through the adoption of a more efficient hull structure and an innovative hybrid propulsion system.

The LNG carriers, scheduled for completion and delivery in 2018 and 2019, respectively, will be put into service for the Cameron LNG Project in the US. The event marks the first order placed to MHI for LNG carriers to transport shale gas.

The order for the two LNG carriers was received through MI LNG Company Ltd, a joint venture between MHI and Imabari Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.

The LNG carriers will be constructed at MHI's Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works. The tanks will have a total holding capacity of 177 000 m³. LNG carrying efficiency has been increased as the vessel width has been kept to a size enabling its passage through the newly expanding Panama Canal expected to go into service early in 2016.

The LNG carriers on order feature a hybrid propulsion system dubbed "STaGE" (Steam Turbine and Gas Engines), which combines a steam turbine and engines that can be fired by gas.

Adapted from press release by Callum O'Reilly

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/lng-shipping/29012015/mhi-confirms-order-for-two-lng-carriers-141/