VESSEL REVIEW | Green Future – Kambara Kisen's new Ultramax bulker fitted with methanol dual-fuel propulsion
Japan's Tsuneishi Shipbuilding recently handed over a new bulk carrier to local shipowner Kambara Kisen.
The Liberian-flagged Green Future will be operated under a long-term time charter by NYK Bulk and Projects Carriers, a company under the NYK Group. It is notable for being the first bulk carrier in the NYK Group fleet to be equipped with a dual-fuel engine that can run on both methanol and conventional fuel oil.
The newbuild has an LOA of 199.99 metres (656.14 feet), a beam of 32.25 metres (105.8 feet), a draught of 13.8 metres (45.3 feet), a depth of 19.15 metres (62.83 feet), and a deadweight of approximately 65,700.
The total cargo capacity is 81,500 cubic metres (2.88 million cubic feet), which Tsuneishi said is the largest cargo capacity among current Ultramax ships.
Capable of operating with reduced local emissions
NYK said that, by using bio-methanol and e-methanol produced using hydrogen derived from renewable energy sources and recovered carbon dioxide, the vessel can achieve significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Tsuneishi added that, by using methanol, the vessel is able to reduce emissions of NOx by up to 80 per cent, SOx by up to 99 per cent, and CO2 by up to 10 per cent compared to conventional heavy fuel oil. Emissions can be further reduced with the aid of pollution-preventing environmental technology devices
The ship’s methanol fuel tank has been positioned to maximise safety and facilitate smooth cargo handling while maintaining loading efficiency.
Versatile hull configuration
The vessel also boasts a general-purpose hull that can transport various types of bulk cargo including grain and ore.
The hull adopts Tsuneishi’s proprietary wind resistance-reducing bow and accommodation block to ensure improved fuel economy over the same sailing distances during both shallow- and full-draught operations as well as compliance with EEDI phase III regulations.
Tsuneishi said the interiors utilise exquisite design and indirect lighting to improve crew relaxation and comfort.