Japan-based classification society ClassNK has granted an approval in principle (AIP) to the concept design of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered bulk carrier jointly developed by NYK Line and Japan Marine United (JMU).

The AIP complies with ClassNK’s Rule Part GF, which follows the International Code of Safety for Ships using gases or other low-flashpoint fuels (IGF Code).

The 200,000DWT carrier is designed to offer additional cargo-carrying capacity in spite of its extra weight caused by the increased amount of equipment such as the LNG-fuelled tank and LNG fuel supply system.

The LNG-fuelled operation is set to allow the vessel to reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions. It will also help it to meet Phase 3 of the Energy Efficient Design Index (EEDI) defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the ship’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

“The design developed by NYK and JMU meets the industry’s demand for an increase in cargo capacity while also being environmentally friendly.”

ClassNK Technical Solution Department director and corporate officer Hayato Suga said: “The design developed by NYK and JMU meets the industry’s demand for an increase in cargo capacity while also being environmentally friendly.

“As a classification society, we have confirmed the safety of the design and are very happy to be involved with this innovative project.”

In August, ClassNK awarded an approval certification to Iino Marine Service for successfully concluding an evaluation of the EU Monitoring, Reporting, Verification (EU MRV) monitoring plan for its chemical tanker ‘Chemroad Wing’.

The approval was the first of its kind to be granted by ClassNK.