A Joint Development Project between Lloyd’s Register (LR), Cargill International, Minerva Dry Inc. and Nantong COSCO KHI Ship Engineering Co Ltd (NACKS) has culminated in a highly efficient methanol-ready bulk carrier design.

The JDP included input on user requirements from one of the largest dry bulk operators, Cargill, and brings together the operational experience of ship owner Minerva Dry with the design expertise of leading Chinese shipyard NACKS. LR acted as a trusted adviser throughout the joint development project as the sole classification society for the design of this unique vessel.

The Kamsarmax bulk carrier design includes the potential operation on methanol as a fuel, as well as rotor sail capabilities. By optimising the hull form and implementing energy saving devices, the vessel provides significant improvement in energy efficiency comparing with the last generation of Kamsarmax bulk carriers. It can satisfy the requirement of EEDI Phase 3 by using conventional fuel, with the potential for greater improvement in it following the utilisation of wind propulsion and methanol fuel in the future.