JFE Steel Starts Actual Distributing Service of Electric Propulsion Ship

JFE Steel announced on Thursday its electric propulsion ship entered service to transport steel products including steel sheet and plate. This is the first electric propulsion ship to transport steel products in Japan, which can reduce fuel consumption by 5% compared with diesel ship and contribute to less CO2 emission. The ship covers Japanese shelf sea. JFE Steel examines to introduce additional electric propulsion ships, supposing the performance and service efficiency

The ship’s introduction is in line with JFE Steel’s distribution strategy to adopt high-efficient components on domestic vessels, to utilize lightweight cars or to reduce empty cars for steel sheet transportation, in order to enhance distribution efficiency and environmental measures.

The electric propulsion ship, named Hyper-Eco, has gross weight at 498 tonnes, freight weight at 1,800 tonnes, entire length at 77.08 meters and width at 11.5 meters. The ship runs at 11.5 knots, powered by motors. Water resistance at the stern decreased by 25% by conversion from engine to motor. Moreover, the ship improved energy-saving effect by introduction of 2 biaxial screws or streamlining of the body. The ship doesn’t require licensed crews in the engine department since the motors’ power output is below 750 kilowatt, legally defined line.