MOL debuts radical new LNG carrier design
MOL Secures Approval for Innovative LNG Carrier Designs
Japan’s Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) has received significant approval in principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register (LR) for two innovative designs of membrane-type LNG carriers. These vessels will feature four units of the Wind Challenger, a cutting-edge wind-assisted propulsion system aimed at enhancing fuel efficiency. The new designs, developed in partnership with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Samsung Heavy Industries, have also completed safety evaluations with respective flag states, marking a major step forward in sustainable shipping technology.
Details of the New LNG Carrier Designs
The approved designs are for a 174,000 cubic meter LNG carrier, showcasing advanced engineering from both Korean shipyards. Each vessel will be equipped with four Wind Challenger units, which are hard sails made from fiber-reinforced plastic. This innovative technology has been in development by MOL for over a decade, reflecting the company’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of maritime transport.
The new vessel configurations have strategically moved the bridge towards the bow, allowing for an increased number of Wind Challenger units and optimized placements. This design change is expected to significantly enhance fuel efficiency, with preliminary calculations indicating potential fuel savings of up to 30% per voyage. On an annual basis, MOL anticipates savings between 15% to 20%, underscoring the economic benefits of integrating wind propulsion into LNG shipping.
MOL has ambitious plans for the future, aiming to equip 25 vessels with Wind Challengers by 2030 and 80 by 2035. Currently, the company has already delivered two vessels and confirmed installations on an additional nine. The new LNG carrier designs will be showcased at the Gastech exhibition in Milan this week, highlighting MOL’s advancements in sustainable shipping solutions.
