Innovative Watertight Hatch Cover Design from Lemissoler Receives ABS Approval

ABS has granted Approval in Principle (AIP) to Lemissoler Corporate Management Ltd. for its innovative watertight hatch cover design for bulk carriers.

Lemissoler Corporate Management Ltd has developed a novel watertight hatch cover for Gearless Bulk Carrier vessels. The design improves hatch cover water tightness through an innovative seal arrangement, features an enclosed deck configuration that enhances crew protection from weather, reduces deck maintenance, and increases cargo capacity.

ABS carried out design reviews following the class requirements, assessing the structural plan, finite element strength analysis (FEM), and hydraulic system.

“Larger gearless vessels, such as the Kamsarmax, are a popular design due to their ability to transport a wide range of cargoes. These advanced watertight hatches help to safeguard cargo, enabling vessels to operate at reduced freeboards, and improving their Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), thereby boosting environmental performance. ABS is proud to support this groundbreaking design from Lemissoler,” said Joshua Divin, ABS Senior Vice President, Marine Business Development.

Philippos Philis, Lemissoler Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability:

“At Lemissoler, innovation and sustainability are at the heart of our vessel design philosophy. We are proud to unveil our advanced watertight hatch cover system, designed for gearless vessels such as the Kamsarmax and Capesize, which not only improves cargo protection and capacity but also makes a significant contribution to energy efficiency and lowering environmental impact. Working with ABS on this pioneering project underscores our dedication to advancing maritime engineering while supporting the industry’s decarbonization objectives.”

■ Contact: ABS https://ww2.eagle.org/en.html