‘Nord Hercules’ kicks off new Mitsui bulker series

This newbuilding is the first of the newly-developed Mitsui 110BC ‘over-Panamax’ (post-Panamax) bulk carrier design aimed at greater efficiency in the shipment of iron ore, coal and grain by taking full advantage of the future expansion of the Panama Canal. The extra-wide moulded breadth of 43m, compared to the current Panamax width of 32.20m, provides greater flexibility, satisfying the regulatory requirements of major coal loading/unloading ports while maximising deadweight.

Furthermore, the design incorporates technology to meet the requirements of new regulations leading to better environmental performance, greater versatility in operation and a higher level of safety in the construction of the vessel. She is designed in accordance with the Common Structural Rules for bulk carriers (CSR-B) of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), intended to achieve both structural safety and operational freedom.

Enhanced safety has been achieved by satisfying new regulations for forecastle arrangement and bow part reserve buoyancy, while the fitting of fixed inspection devices and portable ladders in the cargo holds and ballast tanks based upon the SOLAS regulations has further improved safety. The ship also meets the fuel oil tank protection regulations of the MARPOL convention and has a sewage tank to preserve contamination of the marine environment.

MES claims that the Nord Hercules has sufficient structural strength and enough cargo hold capacity to accommodate cargoes of iron ore, coal or grain, leading to optimum efficiency in shipping schedules. Her mooring equipment has been installed to match the facilities of iron ore loading ports in Brazil. The Japanese shipbuilder also maintains that the new vessel achieves energy savings by adopting the most advanced forms of bow and stern, a high efficiency propeller and other energy-saving devices.

The main propulsion plant is a compact and high-powered Mitsui-built MAN B&W 6S60MC-C diesel engine, which satisfies IMO environmental standards for exhaust gas emissions. This diesel mechanical power plant delivers a maximum continuous rating output of 13,560kW @ 105rpm and drives a single FP propeller to give a service speed of 14.5 knots.

Principal dimensions

Length oa 240.00m

Length bp 233.00m

Breadth (moulded) 43.00m

Depth (moulded) 20.70m

Gross tonnage 60,997 tons

Deadweight 110,944 tonnes

Main Engine 1 x Mitsui-MAN B&W diesel engine 6S60MC-C, maximum output 13,560kW @ 105 rpm

Speed 14.5 knots

Crew 25 persons

Classification Society NK