MOL Takes Delivery of New Methanol-Powered Carrier

MOL says it has taken delivery of a 50,000 DWT dual fuel methanol carrier Manchac Sun.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) Friday announced that it has taken delivery of a 50,000 DWT dual-fuel methanol carrier Manchac Sun at Minaminippon Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (Minaminippon Shipbuilding).

"The Manchac Sun stands as a cutting-edge 'eco-ship' as one of the world's first series of the vessels equipped with 2-stroke dual-fueled low-rev main engine capable of running on methanol which is a biodegradable clean burning marine fuel," said MOL.

The company notes that not only does the vessel "significantly" reduce particulate, sulfur oxide, and nitrogen oxide emissions when using methanol as fuel, but also features energy-saving accessories in front of and astern of the propellers, and is equipped with a ballast water treatment system.

"MOL works continually to upgrade its methanol transport services by leveraging experiences and know-how accumulated over many years, meet a broad range of customer needs, and proactively introduce various technologies that contribute to reduction of environmental impact," added the company.

The vessel will be put on a long term time charter with Waterfront Shipping Company Limited (Waterfront Shipping), which is noted to operate the world's largest methanol ocean tanker fleet.

As Ship & Bunker reported in June, the 50,000 DWT Taranaki Sun, which can also run on methanol bunkers, and is owned by Waterfront Shipping, made its maiden voyage to China.

In April, Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO at DNV GL – Maritime, said methanol bunkers offer a "promising" solution for those operating vessels within emission control areas (ECAs).