Tsuneishi delivers LNG-fired limestone carrier to United Naikai Kaiun

Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, a Japanese shipbuilder, on March 19 announced the delivery of an LNG-fired limestone carrier to transportation company United Naikai Kaiun.

Equipped with a hybrid propulsion system, the limestone carrier combines an LNG-burning gas engine manufactured by Kawasaki Heavy Industries with a battery system. 

The vessel's cargo hold has been designed to accommodate both an LNG fuel system and a lithium-ion battery hybrid system without compromising loading and handling capabilities. Tsuneishi Shipbuilding said that the ship maintains the same level of performance as conventional vessels.

Tsuneishi Shipbuilding stated that the CO2 emission reduction effect is approximately 24% compared to conventional heavy oil-fueled ships. Additionally, the exhaust gas contains minimal sulfur oxide (SOx) components, contributing to cleaner air quality and environmental conservation.

For the LNG tank, Tsuneishi has used a specially developed 7% nickel steel sheet by Nippon Steel Corporation. This material offers comparable properties to a conventional 9% nickel steel sheet while reducing the use of nickel, further enhancing the vessel's sustainability credentials.