Lemissoler Secures Approval for Innovative Hatch Design

Lemissoler Corporate Management Ltd. has achieved a significant milestone by receiving Approval in Principle (AiP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for its cutting-edge watertight hatch cover design tailored for gearless bulk carrier vessels. This approval not only enhances the Limassol-based company’s standing in sustainable ship design but also underscores its commitment to innovative engineering solutions.

Revolutionary Design Enhances Efficiency and Safety

The new watertight hatch cover system, developed by Lemissoler’s skilled technical team, significantly improves watertight integrity through an advanced sealing arrangement. This innovative design also features an enclosed deck configuration that protects crews from severe weather conditions, minimizes deck maintenance, and increases cargo capacity. Such enhancements are crucial for modern shipping operations, where efficiency and safety are paramount.

ABS conducted a thorough review of the hatch cover’s structural plans, including finite element strength analysis (FEM) and the hydraulic system, confirming that the design meets all class requirements. Joshua Divin, ABS Senior Vice President of Marine Business Development, highlighted the growing popularity of larger gearless vessels like the Kamsarmax due to their versatility. He emphasized that the new watertight hatches not only safeguard cargo but also allow vessels to operate at reduced freeboards, thereby improving the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and enhancing environmental performance. Divin expressed pride in supporting Lemissoler’s groundbreaking design.

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Philippos Philis, Chairman and CEO of Lemissoler, reiterated the company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability in vessel design. He stated, “We are proud to unveil our advanced watertight hatch cover system, designed for gearless vessels such as the Kamsarmax and Capesize, which not only improves cargo protection and capacity but also makes a significant contribution to energy efficiency and lowering environmental impact.” Philis noted that collaborating with ABS on this pioneering project highlights Lemissoler’s commitment to advancing maritime engineering and supporting the industry’s decarbonization goals.

Commitment to Sustainable Maritime Practices

ABS’s New Technology Qualification services provide a structured pathway for verifying that emerging technologies meet established performance standards. In this case, the process has validated Lemissoler’s latest contribution to safer, greener, and more efficient bulk carrier operations. Founded in 1996, Lemissoler manages a modern eco-fleet of 12 bulk carriers and continues to lead Cyprus’s maritime innovation and sustainability efforts.

This recent approval marks a pivotal moment for Lemissoler as it strives to enhance the efficiency and safety of maritime operations while addressing the pressing need for sustainable practices in the shipping industry.

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