World’s First LNG-Powered Bulk Carrier : MAN Diesel & Turbo has been contracted to supply a dual fuel low-speed diesel engine to a bulk carrier currently being built in South Korea.
Once completed, which is currently expected in the second half of 2017, the 50,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) carrier will be the world’s first LNG-powered bulker featuring a ME-GI prime mover.
The ship, which will be powered by a MAN B&W 6G50ME-C9.5-GI engine, will be built by Korean ship owner ILSHIN and Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co. Ltd. (HMD).
MAN’s ME-GI engine features a smaller, unburnt gas slip meaning it produces less greenhouse gas emissions than those of other competing engines. It uses high-pressure gas injection and allows ship operators to use either hydroflouroolefins (HFOs) or natural gas.
A spokesperson claims that the ME-GI engine series is “the most environmentally-friendly technology available for marine propulsion.”
A press release stated, “MAN Diesel & Turbo sees significant opportunities arising for gas-fuelled tonnage as concerns about both carbon dioxide (CO2) and sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions increase.”
Once commissioned, multinational steel-making company POSCO will deliver the LNG fuel tank and will use the vessel to transport limestone for its operations.
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