ADVANCED LNG CARRIER WITH ENERGY SAVING PROPULSION SYSTEMS: TWO OPTIONS

摘要

Reduction of ocean transportation costs is a never-ceasing aim in the case of LNG transportation chain operations. To further this goal, such methods as enlarging the size of carriers to raise efficiency and reduction of fuel costs through the use of advanced plant systems are being studied around the world. In this paper, two options for low fuel cost propulsion systems that have been developed and their use for next-generation LNG carriers are presented:rn1. DRL: two stroke Diesel main engine + boil off gas Re-Liquefaction plant:rnConcerning re-liquefaction plant, MHI has developed a next-generation plant and is using on-going feedback based on the actual performance of this plant, which has been installed and is in actual commercial use, for the purpose of establishing the level of improvement in both efficiency gained from using a re-liquefaction plant and in safety and operating reliability.rn2. SST: Simplified and Superior efficiency steam Turbine propulsion;rnSteam turbine plants have been used for most LNG carriers because of their high operating reliability and flexibility of available fuel.rnHowever, compared to land-based power plants, the rate of development in this area has been lagging. MHI has recently developed and is offering a new steam turbine plant with vastly improved fuel consumption efficiency while retaining the important features of high reliability and ease of operation.