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 reputation in sustainable ship design but also marks a pivotal advancement in maritime engineering.

Innovative Design Enhances Safety and Efficiency

The new watertight hatch cover system, developed by Lemissoler’s technical team, significantly improves watertight integrity through an advanced sealing arrangement. This innovative design features an enclosed deck configuration that protects crews from severe weather conditions, reduces the need for deck maintenance, and increases cargo capacity. The comprehensive structural plans, including finite element strength analysis (FEM) and the hydraulic system, were meticulously reviewed by ABS, confirming that they meet all class requirements.

Joshua Divin, Senior Vice President of Marine Business Development at ABS, emphasized the popularity of larger gearless vessels like the Kamsarmax due to their versatility. He noted that the new watertight hatches not only safeguard cargo but also enable vessels to operate at reduced freeboards, thereby enhancing the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and improving overall environmental performance. Divin expressed pride in supporting Lemissoler’s groundbreaking design, which aligns with industry goals for sustainability.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

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. This system not only enhances cargo protection and capacity but also significantly contributes to energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact.”

NSCV C2 standard for weathertight and watertight integrity to be mandatory from 1 September 2025

Philis highlighted that collaborating with ABS on this pioneering project underscores Lemissoler’s commitment to advancing maritime engineering and supporting the industry’s decarbonization objectives. ABS’s New Technology Qualification services provide a structured pathway for verifying that emerging technologies meet established performance standards, validating 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.

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