LR gives AIP for Japanese LNG-powered coal carrier

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. (MOL) said that together with Tohoku Electric Power and Namura Shipbuilding have received an approval in principle (AIP) from Lloyd’s Register for the design of an LNG-powered coal carrier.

The three companies have moved ahead with this project and recently conducted a hazard identification study (HAZID), and finished the basic design, MOL said on Wednesday.

This is Japan’s first joint acquisition by three companies, a shipping company, cargo owner, and shipbuilder, of an AIP for a vessel powered by LNG.

The vessel design ensures sufficient cargo capacity without making the hull larger by installing the LNG fuel tank at the stern.

In addition, the study is pursued based on the installation of the tank cover with an eye toward preventing an onboard fire from spreading to the LNG fuel tank while streamlining inspection work, MOL said.