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Classification society ClassNK has granted approval in principle (AIP) to a 98,000-deadweight-tonne (dwt) LNG-fuelled bulk carrier design developed by Maritime Innovation Japan Corporation (MIJAC).

Utilizing its knowledge and experience in the field of LNG-fuelled vessels, ClassNK carried out the safety evaluation of the vessel and approved the concept design based on the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code), which is due to come into effect from January 1, 2017, and ClassNK's Guidelines for Gas-fuelled Ships.

The vessel is to be fitted with a 2,000-cubic-metre (cbm) capacity LNG tank (IMO Type B) and an LNG fuel supply system. The main engine and main generator engines are to all operate on dual fuel.

"ClassNK has the world's top share of bulk carriers on its register and through granting AIP to this LNG-fuelled bulk carrier, it is contributing to the spread of environmentally friendly shipping practices," ClassNK said in a statement.