News: BV Backs Double-Hull Bulker Designs

Bureau Veritas has given preliminary approval to three designs for double-hull bulk carriers that are expected to meet future revisions to IACS and IMO regulations. The designs, two for Capesizes and one for a Panamax bulk carrier, will all withstand the flooding of each individual cargo hold and side space, and have increased longitudinal strength required to meet the anticipated revisions to IACS UR S17 (longitudinal strength), S18 (transverse bulkheads) and S20 (double-bottom).

The three designs are a Capesize with longitudinal framing in the double side skin designed by Trieste-based Meccano Marine & Industrial Engineering, a Capesize with transverse framing designed by Galati-based Icepronav and Constanta shipyard and a Panamax designed by Trieste-based design house Marine Engineering Services.

In addition to the increased longitudinal strength, the three designs all have reinforced hatch covers, a raised forecastle and have been designed to accommodate permanent means of access for inspection and maintenance of structure, all of which are expected to become mandatory. The designs have also been examined against BV's latest comprehensive fatigue requirements.