DNV brings LNG-fuel bulkers to the table

Ecore, a joint industry LNG-fuelled bulk carrier concept, with FKAB bunkering vessel alongside. FKAB’s scope has been design, hull structures, LNG bunkering system, visual & industrial design.

For the Ecore project, DNV has partnered with FKAB, TGE Marine, Cargotec and MAN Diesel & Turbo in a joint industry project. Ecore is described as a very large ore carrier (VLOC) concept designed to lower fuel costs and improve loading efficiency. Based on existing technologies, the Ecore concept is said by DNV to represent a step change in VLOC design. Powered by two-stroke dual fuel ME-GI engines, the concept features a more ballast-friendly hull shape, a large centre cargo hold layout and introduces an efficient self-loading system.

DNV project manager Pål Wold, says that the Ecore concept would not only improve VLOC performance but also help lower fuel costs and corresponding emissions. “Working closely with our partners, we recognized that significant improvements can be achieved on both the machinery and hull by using existing technology,” he says. “Our goal was to combine proven systems and design concepts to demonstrate how fuel costs can be reduced and loading efficiency improved.”

Wold notes that while Ecore may challenge existing ideas on the design of VLOC’s, the concept is built on real data. The project team sent out a survey to ship owners, cargo owners and brokers to ensure the project was consistent with market demand, and designed the vessel for a recognized trade – iron ore between China and Australia. “Ecore is based on market reality and applies existing technology to real-world issues,” he says.

For example, the cargo centre-hold layout and mid-ship form was developed to minimize the need for ballast, to enable more efficient cargo-handling and to allow space for LNG tanks to be situated below the main deck. The self-loading system allows the shore-based loader to operate at a single point along the vessel, said to be safer and to reduce the time spent in port. At the same time, the ME-GI gas engines developed by MAN Diesel & Turbo make it possible to use both conventional fuels and LNG, offering a degree of safeguard against volatile fuel prices. Wold acknowledges that LNG fuel creates challenges with regard to bunkering and retraining onboard-ersonnel, but says that solutions are being developed. “Engine manufacturers – including MAN Diesel & Turbo – are already developing training modules to further improve competence,” he says.

For more information see: http://www.dnv.com/press_area/press_releases/2011/ecoreastepchangeinvlocdesign.asp