ABS, SDTR and SDARI Develop Methanol-Fuelled Bulker

SDTR supplied key operational data and SDARI developed the design with ABS support and review. ABS also provided an analysis of methanol as fuel market outlook, including a vessel performance evaluation in various operating scenarios including under the European Union Emissions Trading System.

SDARI’s neo-Panamax 85,000dwt bulk carrier has achieved good market response. As of 2021, 37 construction contracts have been signed. SDARI has now developed a series of new energy fuel solutions for bulk carriers. “The advantages of methanol are mainly reflected in the lower transformation cost, and through the ratio of grey methanol and green methanol, it can meet the requirements of GHG emission reduction in 2050,” said Wang GangYi, Chief Engineer of SDARI.

“As a professional and responsible dry bulk owner, we strive to continuously upgrade and innovate our Kamsarmax fleet to improve their energy efficiency to contribute towards the decarbonization of the shipping industry,” said Gao Dehui, CEO of SDTR Marine, pictured alongside Pier Carazzai, ABS VP, Pacific Regional Business Development.

One of the shipowner’s managed vessels, SDTR Dora, achieved the first A-level rating in the world for Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) last year – awarded by China Classification Society. SDTR Marine aims for its fleet to be net-zero by 2050 and is continuing to develop energy-saving and environmentally friendly ship types.

ABS published its Guide for Methanol and Ethanol Fueled Vessels in January 2022 setting out classification criteria for associated equipment and systems.