Japanese Ductile Steel Technology Incorporated Into New MOL Bulker

Japanese engineers have introduced new technology to the shipbuilding industry in the form of “highly ductile steel plate” on board a newly launched 206,600 ton dwt bulk carrier at Imabari Shipbuilding.

This plate has been developed through the cooperation of Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation, Imabari Shipbuilding Co, and Japan’s National Maritime Research Institute.

Launched on 2 August, this yet unnamed new vessel features about 3,000 tons of steel plate built into its cargo holds along the waterline and fuel tanks that allows it to absorb side impacts three times more effectively than conventional steel plate without cracking.

From a materials engineering standpoint, this new plate, called NSafe®-Hull, can withstand greater plastic deformation and achieve higher ultimate strength before fracture.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines notes that this new plate will result in improved puncture resistance to help prevent flooding, protect cargo and prevent environmental damage from oil leakage.

Vessel particulars:

• Length – 299.94 m
• Beam: 50.00 m
• Draft – 24.70 m
• Deadweight tonnage – 206,600 MT
• Shipyard – Imabari Shipbuilding Co., Ltd, Saijo Shipyard

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