NKK-Built Bulk Carrier Featuring Ax-Bow
Receives "Ship of the Year 2001" Award
The Society of Naval Architects of Japan has presented
the Kohyohsan, a 172,000-dwt Capesize bulk carrier built by NKK,
the "Ship of the Year 2001" award. The society granted the
title to the vessel in recognition of its unique ax-shaped bow that
greatly reduces wave resistance under rough sea conditions.
The Kohyohsan is the first carrier to adopt the
Ax-Bow, which NKK developed in response to growing demand from shipping
operators for a ship with greater propulsion, particularly in wild seas.
Working with Osaka University marine engineers, NKK focused on reducing
ship resistance on the bow above the still water surface. Conducting
model ship tests, the NKK design team confirmed that a sharp-edged Ax-Bow
can reduce a ship's sea margin by 20-30% compared to conventional bows.
Fuel oil consumption can also be reduced by some 4%, even under fully
loaded conditions.
The Kohyohsan was delivered from NKK's Tsu Works
to Erica Navigation S.A. of Panama in June 2001, and is now in service
under charter by Mitsui OSK Lines. To date, NKK has delivered five vessels
fitted with the Ax-Bow, which it plans to adopt in its standard design
for future Capesize bulk carriers.
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