Guangzhou Shipbuilding International Launches Next-Generation Methanol Dual-Fuel Chemical/Oil Product Carrier

On April 8, Guangzhou Shipyard International, in collaboration with China Shipbuilding Trading Co., Ltd., completed the transfer and launching of the fourth 50,000-dwt methanol-fueled chemical/product oil tanker built for J.P. Morgan Asset Management. As the fourth vessel in this series, the project team further enhanced the vessel’s launch integrity through continuous lean management and optimization of production processes, earning an outstanding score of 99 in the phase-transition review.

In recent days, frequent rainy weather has posed challenges. The project team conducted a thorough and data-driven analysis and implemented targeted measures, including precise monitoring of weather changes, rainproofing and dehumidification in critical areas, and process optimization. As a result, the entire ship’s open-deck grinding and painting were completed in just two days, effectively mitigating the adverse impact of the rainy conditions on the coating operations.

During construction, the vessel was subject to “six-fold closed-loop” management, ensuring that all compartments were built to specification in a single pass. By the time of launching, key equipment in the superstructure, on-deck areas, and engine room had all been commissioned and submitted for inspection, with overall commissioning completion reaching 62%. Notably, systems such as the superstructure navigation and communication suite, fire-alarm broadcasting system, nitrogen system, and ballast-water treatment system all passed inspection on the first attempt; load and operational tests for deck equipment—including anchor windlasses and life-saving appliances—were fully completed; and prior to launching, the anchor-brake positioning system underwent its first inspection, effectively preventing paint contamination of the outer plating during the berth phase. In addition, critical systems such as methanol combustible-gas detection, boilers, steering gear, and autopilot were also fully commissioned and inspected, laying a solid foundation for further shortening the berth-phase construction schedule.

A total of six vessels are planned for this series, representing a new-generation 50,000-dwt methanol dual-fuel chemical/product tanker independently developed by Guangzhou Shipbuilding International. The ships are equipped with an advanced methanol dual-fuel propulsion system, a ship-shore power connection interface, and a RINA-certified rotor sail design, significantly reducing their carbon emissions during operation.

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