Japanese Ultramax Gains An Edge

The PM Hayabusa II combines a high intake capacity and near-64,000dwt with an operationally-advantageous overall length of less than 200m, while incorporating an upgraded, more broadly-based environmental standard relative to her immediate forebears. This latest, geared maid-of-all-work was constructed in Okayama Prefecture at the Mizushima yard, which has a long track record in turning out both bulkers, including about 100 Panamax units, and tankers.

PM Hayabusa II is arranged with five holds giving a total, grain-equivalent load capacity of 81,490m³, and suited to the widest range of industrial raw materials, agricultural bulks and also steel products such as hot-rolled coil. The large hatchways facilitate the handling of lengthy items such as steel pipes.

Self-sufficiency in cargo working, an added-value element in many spheres of bulker trading, is conferred by four 30t jib cranes mounted along the centreline, deploying hook or 12m³ grab with equanimity.

Maintenance procedures are abetted by access trunks from the upper deck to the double bottom, easing the task of inspections, even when the ship is in laden condition.

The new Ultramax is powered by an MAN S50ME-C main engine in six-cylinder format, manufactured at Tamano by Mitsui and rated in this application for an output of 6,920kW, substantial below the type’s nominal MCR. The installation achieves Tier III NOx compliance through integral exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) bypass methodology, while provision for storage and use of low-sulphur fuel enables emission control area (SECA) criteria to be met.

In addition to the efficiency attributes of the two-stroke prime mover and direct drive to a large-diameter propeller turning at a maximum 90rpm, the hull embodies a straight, bulbless stem, Sanoyas-developed tandem fin and advanced-flow, energy-saving duct. The proprietary energy-saving features are claimed to yield an overall effectiveness of 8% as regards both reduced energy consumption and CO₂ emissions.

The resulting EEDI measurement is comparable to the Phase 3 level that will be required of vessels ordered from 2025 onwards.

PM Hayabusa II is registered under the Liberian flag with Stevens Line of Hiroshima. Management is in the hands of the Tokyo company First Marine Service, whose leading shareholder is Daiichi Chuo Kisen Kaisha.

A further example of the design is in hand at Mizushima, along with a raft of Kamsarmax bulker newbuilds for various owners.

MAIN PARTICULARS – PM Hayabusa II