Experience of work on the multipurpose vessel

I have been in charge of machinery on Pielstick-equipped ships for the last eleven years, most of time on banana boats.

When some people compare the medium-speed engines to slow-speed ones, they think there is so much more work to be done on the medium speeds. In a way they are right, but I think the main difference is the kind of work that is required.

With the medium-speed engine you have to have much closer contact with the manufacturer in the beginning.

You have to know the characteristics of your specific engine so you know what to look for, and what to do.

You also have to keep a closer eye on temperatures, and generally be very exacting and professional all the time.

The greatest difference might be which part of your body you have to actuate. With the slow-speed engines you can use a lot of muscles, but with medium-speeds I think you are better off with a good brain.

Having responsibility for the economy, I feel very confident with the engine. Everything goes very smoothly and we haven't had any serious problems so far. We did have one incident with the liners in the beginning. The manufacturer had installed the wrong ones, but changed them free of charge. So it was really no problem for us.

I remember the engines on the banana boat I was with before the multipurpose ship. They were similar to this engine. When I left after ten years the original liners were still in. We made inspections every 18,000 hours, but never found much wear.

Here on this ship too my budget for maintenance spare parts and lubrication oil is well under control. We removed all the injection valves after 7,000 hours and had them checked. Three of them had to be replaced, but the rest were put back in. Up till now we have also changed eleven exhaust valves. That's all after 12,000 hours of operation at about 93% load.

Coming back to the difference between different types of engines, it might be true that you need a more devoted crew to get good performance out of a medium-speed engine. But don't think that is the problem!

With the medium-speed engine you can offer much better working conditions, so most of the time you get the people you want. That's my experience, anyway.

A multipurpose vessel (MPV) is a type of cargo ship designed to carry various types of cargo, providing versatility and flexibility for different shipping needs. MPVs are particularly valuable for routes and regions where diverse cargo types are transported together, offering cost-effective and efficient solutions for mixed cargo loads. Here’s a detailed look at multipurpose vessels:

Key Features of Multipurpose Vessels

1. Versatile Cargo Holds:

• Configurable Holds: MPVs have cargo holds that can be adjusted or partitioned to accommodate different types of cargo, including bulk, breakbulk, and containerized cargo.
• Deck Strength: Reinforced decks and holds to handle heavy loads and different cargo types.

2. Cargo Handling Equipment:

• Cranes and Derricks: Equipped with their own cargo handling gear, such as cranes and derricks, allowing for loading and unloading at ports without sophisticated infrastructure.
• Ro-Ro Ramps: Some MPVs feature roll-on/roll-off ramps to facilitate the transport of wheeled cargo, like vehicles and heavy machinery.

3. Container Capability:

• Container Fittings: MPVs often have container fittings on the deck and in the holds, allowing for the transport of standard shipping containers alongside other cargo types.

4. Refrigerated Compartments:

• Temperature Control: Some MPVs are equipped with refrigerated compartments (reefer capacity) for transporting perishable goods.

Typical Cargo Types for Multipurpose Vessels

1. Containerized Cargo:

• Standard Containers: 20-foot and 40-foot containers with various types of goods.
• Specialized Containers: Reefer containers for perishables, tank containers for liquids, and flat racks for oversized cargo.

2. Breakbulk Cargo:

• Packaged Goods: Crates, pallets, and boxes containing various manufactured goods.
• Machinery and Equipment: Large industrial machines, vehicles, and other heavy equipment.

3. Bulk Cargo:

• Dry Bulk: Grains, fertilizers, and other dry materials transported in bulk.
• Liquid Bulk: Some MPVs can transport liquid bulk in tanks or ISO tank containers.

4. Project Cargo:

• Oversized and Heavy Lift Items: Components for infrastructure projects, such as wind turbines, construction equipment, and other large structures.

Advantages of Multipurpose Vessels

1. Flexibility:

• Adaptability: Capable of handling different cargo types on a single voyage, making them highly adaptable to various shipping demands.
• Route Versatility: Suitable for serving ports with limited infrastructure, thanks to onboard cargo handling equipment.

2. Efficiency:

• Cost-Effective: By carrying multiple cargo types, MPVs maximize space utilization and reduce the need for multiple voyages, leading to cost savings.
• Reduced Port Dependence: Onboard cranes and other equipment reduce reliance on port facilities, enhancing operational efficiency.

3. Market Reach:

• Access to Diverse Markets: Ideal for servicing regions with varied shipping needs, such as developing countries and remote areas where specialized vessels might not be viable.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Complex Logistics:

• Cargo Planning: Managing and planning the stowage of different cargo types can be complex and requires careful coordination.
• Loading/Unloading Times: Handling multiple types of cargo may result in longer port stays compared to specialized vessels.

2. Regulatory Compliance:

• Safety Regulations: Must comply with international safety and environmental regulations for different cargo types.
• Customs and Documentation: Managing documentation for diverse cargo can be more complex.

Future Trends

1. Digitalization:

• Smart Technology: Integration of advanced digital technologies for better cargo management, navigation, and fuel efficiency.
• IoT and Sensors: Use of Internet of Things (IoT) and sensors for real-time monitoring of cargo conditions and ship performance.

2. Sustainability:

• Green Technologies: Adoption of environmentally friendly technologies, such as alternative fuels and energy-efficient designs, to reduce carbon footprint.

3. Enhanced Versatility:

• Modular Designs: Future MPVs may feature more modular designs, allowing even greater flexibility in cargo configuration and handling.

Multipurpose vessels play a crucial role in the global shipping industry, offering adaptable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions for transporting a wide range of cargo types, meeting the diverse needs of shippers and enhancing global trade connectivity.