The design concept is part of a project focused on converting Tsuneishi’s Kamsarmax bulk carrier standard design to accommodate methanol as a dual fuel option. Credit: TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING Co., Ltd.

Japanese ship classification society ClassNK has granted an approval in principle (AiP) for the design concept of a retrofitted Kamsarmax bulk carrier for its transition from conventional fuel to a methanol dual-fuel configuration.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between Tsuneishi Shipbuilding and the Fonden Mærsk Mc-Kinney Moller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.

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The AiP certification confirms the ship’s design concept complies with regulatory standards, marking a step in the transition of the current fleet to alternative fuels, given that bulk carriers of this size are stated to be commonly in operation today.

The design concept is part of a project focused on converting Tsuneishi’s Kamsarmax bulk carrier standard design to accommodate methanol as a dual fuel option.

This project’s aim is to create a model that could facilitate a wider transition to greener practices within the medium-sized bulk carrier segment.

It addresses various retrofit challenges, including the suitable placement of new methanol fuel tanks.

ClassNK conducted a review of the design concept in accordance with the “Part A Guidelines for Ships Using Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol as Fuels (Edition 3.0.0)” from the “Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels.”

The review included a risk assessment through HAZID.

Following this assessment, ClassNK granted AiP after verifying the feasibility of critical design elements, such as the configuration of methanol fuel tanks and fuel supply systems, ensuring they meet regulatory compliance standards.

In February this year, a consortium led by Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK) obtained AiP from ClassNK for an ammonia-fueled bunkering vessel.

In January, ClassNK granted AiP for an ammonia floating storage and regasification barge (A-FSRB).

The approval is claimed to be the “first of its kind” given to an A-FSRB carrying ammonia as cargo.

Developed by NYK Line in partnership with Nihon Shipyard (NSY) and IHI, this offshore floating unit can receive and store ammonia.

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