Great Ships of 2001 -- NYK Lodestar

The design of the 6,200 TEU containership HN1367 for NYK features a maximum capacity of 6,422 TEU conforms to the now standard large container ship layout, with a short accommodation block and engine room approximately three-quarters aft, and seven holds forward and one aft of this position. The forward holds are dimensioned to accept 2 x 40 ft. containers (4 x TEU) in cell guides, and each is closed by two sets of lift-on/off pontoon covers comprising three transverse panels, while the aft holds with three sets of covers, can accept 3 x 40 ft. containers plus 1 x TEU, but otherwise restricted by the aft-body hull form. Containers are carried on the hatch covers over the full width of the vessel, and an additional FEU tier can be carried aft of No. 8 hold above the mooring deck. Lashing bridges are fitted on deck between the hatches. Refrigerated cargoes are catered for by the provision of 500 electric sockets.

Maximum stowage on deck is 16 rows of 7 TEU tiers, and in the holds, 14 rows and 9 tiers. The hatch coamings are continuous and form the major longitudinal strength member, and a double hull structure surrounds the cargo space, forming part of a tank arrangement comprising side, bilge, and three transverse double-bottom compartments. Two sidetank port and starboard is utilized for automatic heel adjustment, with water transferred by means of water ballast & heeling pump.

HN1367 does successfully claim to use the largest main engine available for marine use. The ship's HSD-Sulzer 12RTA96C, unit is one of the most powerful commissioned for marine use. Built in Korea by Samsung, this has an MCR rating of 89,640 bhp (65,885 kW) at 100 rpm, and when operating at 85 percent full power with a 20 percent sea margin, produces a service speed of 25 knots. A Geislinger torsional vibration damper is included in the propulsion line, together with a monitoring system. In addition two bowthrusters of 1,650 kW each are fitted for efficient maneuvering. The shaft alternator develops 3,000 kW, while four diesel-powered sets each contribute 2,800 kW to an electrical operation controlled by a power management system. The ship is equipped with integrated navigation system (INS), including a console, which includes two radars, multi-function display for X band Radar/ARPA display and electronic chart display and information service (ECDIS), and electronic plotting table. An engine room monitoring station is also fitted on the bridge.