Rolling from the Stones

JJ Sietas Schiffswerft has delivered its first self-discharging bulk carriers. The 28,000 dwt Stones and Kvitnes were handed over to German company Mibau, which extracts and transports aggregate for building purposes. The flexibility of the newbuildings, which can operate independently from port handling equipment, is achieved by use of a BMH Marine-built conveyor with a discharge capacity of up to 3,000t per hour transporting the cargo ashore via an 80m long jib. Loading the vessels is carried out conventionally through the hatches and discharging is done via a conveyor belt running below the holds to the discharger, which is located on the forecastle. Total cargo intake of the seven cargo holds amounts to 20,050m3 with the holds covered by piggy-back type hatches. The vessels are propelled by a MaK8M43 main engine producing 7,300 kW, which is geared to a variable pitch propeller to give a speed of 14 knots. Three auxiliary engines generate 680 kW each, providing the 750 kW required by the conveyor. A shaft generator provides a maximum output of 1,800 kW. The Kvitnes carried out trials on August 8 and was handed over August 17. The Antiguan-flagged Stones was delivered May 11, after it had carried out sea trials without painting and without the conveyor arm (see picture).