MOL unveils VLOC design with 30% less carbon emissions

Tokyo: Mitsui O.S.K. Lines reports it has completed the concept for for an environment-friendly, large-scale iron ore carrier called the ISHIN-III, third in its series of next-generation vessels which it says will be technically practical in the near future.

The concept is based on the 2007-built, award-winning  the very large iron ore carrier Brasil Maru (pictured). The new concept adds two main features: maximised waste heat energy recovery to assist propulsion, and reduction of CO2 emissions even at low speeds by a combination of a turbocharger that can operate at high efficiency even at low rpm and an electronically-controlled main engine. By a combination of the two, CO2 emissions will be reduced by 30%.

Other innovations for ISHIN-III would include: use of the TAICRUSH HD fuel additive jointly developed by MOL Technology Research Center and Taihokohzai Co; adoption of the next-generation ultra-low friction ship bottom coating (in which smooth micro patterned indentations form on the painted surface, trapping water and reducing friction drag; optimised vessel routeing systems; upgraded fuel-saving Propeller Boss Cap Fins (PBCF); optimised hull design; and use of solar battery panels on the aft decks, allowing energy generated during a voyage to provide shipboard electricity whilst in port.

MOL named the first concept vesselin the series "ISHIN-I (ishin one)," which stands for "Innovations in Sustainability backed by Historically proven, INtegrated technologies." In addition, ishin is the Japanese word for a complete revitalization or reform. 

Separately, MOL recently doubled its profit forecast for the financial year ended March 31 2010 from Yen5bn ($54m) to Yen10bn ($108m) , on account of a dry bulk market that had proved steadier than expected, the company said.  [09/04/10]