Japanese shipping giant NYK has placed an order at compatriot Kawasaki Heavy Industries for its first two LPG dual-fueled very large gas carriers.
Kawasaki will build both of the 130 meters long vessels at its Sakaide Works yard and deliver them in 2022, according to NYK.
“When LPG is used as fuel, exhaust gas from the ordered VLGCs will contain at least 85% less sulfur oxide (SOx) and 15% less carbon dioxide (CO2) compared to conventional VLGCs equipped with fuel-oil engines,” the shipper claims.
In addition, the new VLGCs will comply not only with the SOx global cap regulations but also with the EEDI phase 3 requirements, NYK said.
Moreover, by equipping the ships with tanks on deck, it will be possible to load LPG for fuel separately from the LPG cargo.
“Having the LPG tanks on deck extends the cruising range of the vessel when LPG fuel is used even though the size of the vessel remains the same,” NYK added.