SAFER, SMARTER, GREENER
HIGH-PERFORMANCE
MULTI-PURPOSE
VESSELS
MARITIME
A synergy of expertise and innovation
02 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
04Customised expertise
08Requirements and demands
10Unique MPV solutions
12MPV support
14Construction and compliance
16Operation
18Recycling
20Research and Development
22Global reach and local presence
DNV GL – Your trusted partner
DNV GL has provided a wide range of services to the maritime industry for over 145 years: traditional classification services as well as expert advice, consultancy, advanced engineering solutions, certification and training. From our Head Office in Hamburg, Ger-many, the global DNV GL network spans across 300 locations in more than 100 countries, putting a worldwide network at your service wherever and whenever you need it.
Life-cycle support
DNV GL has the solutions and tools to help you manage these and other issues throughout the life cycle of your multi-purpose vessel and ensure efficient operation with minimum downtime.
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CUSTOMISED
EXPERTISE
When dealing with the challenges posed by multi-
purpose vessels (MPVs), our expertise in evaluating
the performance of a particular MPV design, our
ability to develop tailor-made solutions and our com-
prehensive fleet-in-service solutions make us your
partner of choice. DNV GL has provided classification
services to more than 1700 seagoing multi-purpose
vessels for clients all over the world, and we have clas-
sified more dock ships and ice-strengthened vessels
than any other classification society. After container
vessels, this type of vessel forms the second largest
ship segment within the DNV GL-classed fleet. The
deep knowledge gained from the many MPV vessels
we have classified are an important factor in develop-
ing efficient solutions for current MPV challenges.
Jan Rüde
Ship Type Expert MPV
Phone: +49 40 36149-4172
Hamburg
Jörg Langkabel
Business Director MPV
Phone: +49 40 361 49 6324
Hamburg
Bjørdalsbakke, Harald Olav
Ship Type Expert MPV
Phone: +86 21 3208 4518 3749
Shanghai
“The turbulent market and
increasingly stringent regula-
tions are forcing operators to
improve their vessels and
fleets. We work together with
shipowners, shipyards and
designers to boost the design
of multi-purpose vessels for
future-proof transport.”
“Flexibility with regard to
cargo operation is the most
important asset MPVs can
offer to the market. With our
global network, our fun-
damental knowledge and
experience of this ship type,
DNV GL is most suitable to
support the industry during
vessels’ design, construction
and operation.”
“China is the world’s lead-
ing newbuilding market for
MPVs. From Approval Center
China, we support shipyards,
designers and shipowners in
the region with knowledge
and experience; providing
face-to-face technical solutions
and working together for the
future development of this
specialised ship type.”
04 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 05
06 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
ROLLDOCK STAR
GT: 15,382
Overall length: 151.49 m
Cranes: 2 x 650 t
Class notation: 8 100 A5 E2, IW BWM(D2) DG, MULTI-
PURPOSE DRY CARGO SHIP, EQUIPPED FOR CARRIAGE
OF CONTAINERS, EQUIPPED FOR CARRIAGE OF RO-RO
CARGO, HATCHCOVERLESS, SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE,
STRENGTHENED FOR HEAVY CARGO
HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 07
08 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
REQUIREMENTS
AND DEMANDS
INDUSTRIAL FORCE
GT: 12,810
Overall length: 153.52 m
Cranes: 2 x 400 t heavy lift crane,
combined up to 800 t, 1 x 80 t crane
Class notation: 8 GL 100 A5 E3 MULTI-PURPOSE
DRY CARGO SHIP, IW, BWM, SOLAS-II-2, REG.19 DBC
C2P51, EQUIPPED FOR CARRIAGE OF CONTAINERS,
STRENGTHENED FOR HEAVY CARGO, MC E3 AUT EP
Diverse requirements
Multi-purpose vessels must fulfil a wide range of very
different requirements. They are complex in design
and need to be highly flexible in their deployment.
They may be required to transport:
■ minor bulks, e.g. forest products or fertilisers
■ non-containerised general cargo, e.g. steel coils
or construction commodities
■ major bulks, e.g. iron ore or coal
■ project cargo originating from the infrastructure,
energy supply and mining sectors, e.g. delivering
facilities to improve port infrastructure in emerging
markets
Further requirements for MPVs may include:
■ strengthening for operation in ice conditions
■ dynamic positioning
■ open top or partial open top operation, dual
load line
■ employment of stability pontoons
■ the ability to navigate in adverse conditions
■ operating in the growing offshore market
■ cranes with a low or very high safe working load
(SWL)
■ position of the deck house
■ semi-submersible vessel design
■ helideck
■ tween hatch cover and main hatch cover as
foldable or pontoon type
Specialised demands
The multiple transportation demands that MPVs
must fulfil lead to highly specialised design and con-
struction issues. MPVs are often the result of unique
designs and complex technical solutions. They are
constructed as one-off vessels or, at most, in small
series. For the design engineers and the shipyards,
this uniqueness poses a serious challenge, as it often
does not allow for solutions based on past experience.
This is where DNV GL’s long-standing experience
and operational know-how come in. As a classifica-
tion society, we have accompanied the design and
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HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 09
construction of a great number of MPVs, enabling
us to establish an extensive pool of knowledge that
covers all aspects from design approval through con-
struction to inspections during operation. We pro-
vide expert advice on special cargo transportation as
well as support in matters of flag state consultation.
Close collaboration between designers, shipyards
and the DNV GL classification service leads to a cost-
effective construction process for the shipyard and to
high-performing vessels for the shipowner.
10 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
UNIQUE MPV SOLUTIONS
Pre-design for shipowners
An exact definition of your transportation require-
ments is of paramount importance to the future
efficiency of your MPV. These requirements should
be identified during the pre-design phase to deter-
mine the specific demands on the ship structure.
One decisive issue that must be addressed at this
stage is the actual extent of abilities which the ves-
sel must fulfil. When this has been established, the
information is incorporated into the planning and
design so that throughout its life cycle the ship will
satisfy the highest technical and safety standards.
Recently, there has been a trend towards pre-design
feasibility studies to investigate issues such as stability
pontoons that enlarge the SWL, or movable grain
bulkheads. In a challenging market situation faced
with a large variety of cargoes, this is the deciding
factor for later operation and cargo handling.
A DNV GL study can be of great help when seeking
the greatest loading flexibility of the vessel. DNV GL’s
market know-how and experience as a leading MPV
classification society are key factors when providing
the kind of independent approval that will convince
potential shippers.
Pre-design for shipyards
DNV GL supports shipyards from the earliest stages
right through to construction and delivery. Our
advanced engineering know-how and tools drive
innovation and minimise costs.
DNV GL acts as advisor to governments, the IMO,
flag states and port states. We are therefore ideally
placed to provide guidance on compliancy with
all current and upcoming regulations, and to make
sure that these requirements are addressed as early
as possible to avoid costly refits later. This ensures a
smooth shipbuilding process all the way down the line.
During the pre-design phase, we work with the yard
and the owner to precisely identify and define which
cargo requirements the completed vessel will need
to fulfil. This is vital information in determining which
materials are used for certain parts of the ship. We
arrange a personal kick-off meeting where the approval
process will be determined and first important issues
regarding the overall project can be addressed.
Significant technical challenges must be taken into ac-
count when planning a newbuilding. These may include:
■ combined gear for port facilities in emerging markets
■ feasibility studies to ensure hatch cover and tween
deck hatch cover operation at any loading condi-
tion as well as crane operation
MV SVENJA
GT: 15,026
Overall length: 160.6 m
Cranes: 2 x 1,000 t, combinable up to 2,000 t
Class notation: 8 GL 100 A5 MULTI-PURPOSE
DRY CARGO SHIP, HEAVY LIFT SHIP, EP, BWM-S,
HATCHCOVERLESS, DP-1, DG, MC AUT
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HANSA HEAVY LIFT RHINE
GT: 9,616
Overall length: 138.03 m
Cranes: 2 x 180 t,
combinable to 360 t
Class notation: 8 GL 100 A5 E3
(ICE CLASS), STRENGTHENED FOR
HEAVY CARGOES
12 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
MPV SUPPORT
Design for shipowners
During the design phase, it is equally important that
calculations ensure the greatest possible loading
flexibility for the final vessel. At DNV GL, we draw
on our experience to find solutions that combine
flexibility and efficiency.
Ship design that ensures energy-efficient operations
is a crucial factor to building ships with a true com-
petitive advantage. FutureShip, a DNV GL company,
optimises the hull for energy-efficient operations
and implements new technologies at an early stage
to boost profitability and lessen the environmental
impact of shipping.
DNV GL expertise during the design phase plays an
important role in ensuring that your ships retain a
high long-term value, and frequently DNV GL class
ships have an above-average resale value.
Design for shipyards
Advanced engineering and integrated knowledge
at the design stage eliminate obstacles and lead the
way to finding unique solutions for a wide range of
shipowner requirements and demands.
Our experts take into account global design aspects
such as longitudinal and torsional strength of the
hull as well as local strength and deformation of cargo
hold structures. Careful consideration has to be given
to interactive forces in the design of hatch covers and
hatch ways. An optimised crane and crane foundation
design help to maximise the stowage area for product
cargo and for the size of transportable items.
DNV GL offers a number of state-of-the-art design
and simulation tools to assist shipyards:
■ POSEIDON is a structural design and analysis tool
that facilitates the fast development of hull structures
■ DNV GL ShipModel, a pre-processor for generating
FE models for global strength and vibration analysis,
significantly speeds up modelling processes and
enhances model quality
■ DNV GL ShipLoad is the fastest tool available to
help generate, select and apply loads for global
FE analysis of ship structures at the design stage
■ An integrated calculation of crane in operation
and intersection with the hull structure
■ Block loading calculation
As a market leader in the MPV sector, DNV GL has
engineered many successful innovations. Our experi-
ence delivers concrete benefits that facilitate highly
specific, tailor-made MPV design and that allow for a
streamlined, speedy plan approval process.
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RICKMERS TIANJIN
GT: 12,772
Overall length: 144.00 m
Cranes: 1 x 80 t, 2 x 150 t
Class notation: 8 GL 100 A5, G, IW, BWM,
SOLAS II-2 Reg. 19, MULTI-PURPOSE DRY CARGO SHIP,
STRENGTHENED FOR HEAVY CARGO, MC AUT
HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 13
MS COMBI DOCK III
GT: 17,341
Overall length: 169.06 m
Cranes: 3, combinable up to 700 t
Class notation: 8 GL 100 A5 E WITH FREEBORD 3,410M
INF3 IW NAV-OC, BWM, SOLAS-II-2, REG. 19 DBC C2P52
MULTI-PURPOSE DRY CARGO SHIP, EQUIPPED FOR CAR-
RIAGE OF CONTAINERS, EQUIPPED FOR CARRIAGE OF
RO-RO CARGO, SEMI-SUBMERSIBLE, STRENGTHENED
FOR HEAVY CARGO, MC E AUT
14 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
Construction
The MPV segment demands a faster time-to-market
in development, design and construction. We help
shipyards gain a competitive advantage by pro-
viding a one-stop shop that ensures an efficient,
smooth and cost-effective shipbuilding process
from start to finish.
Moreover, DNV GL provides expert advice during the
outfitting process. This may include:
■ crane in side position for enlarged deck area and
project cargo
■ installation of further cranes or tandem operation
in case of reduced SWL
CONSTRUCTION AND COMPLIANCE
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HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 15
OMPLIANCE
■ stabilisation pontoon to increase the SWL
■ crane test procedure
DNV GL’s material and components experts ensure
that components will continue to function reliably
even when the technical framework changes.
Compliancy
DNV GL customers are kept up to date on all the
latest flag state requirements via the DNV GL Rules
Pilot. We offer expert advice on how to interpret
regulations, and on upcoming changes to interna-
tional rules. Our maritime certification service offers
combined certifications or audits to save you time
and money.
DNV GL guarantees outstanding performance
As a world-leading classification society for multi-
purpose vessels, the benefits of working with DNV
GL are manifold:
■ We have classified more MPVs than any other
classification society
■ We are experts in ice-strengthened vessels and
dock ships
■ We offer tailored solutions for specific MPV
challenges
■ Our expertise offers high long-term value and an
above-average resale value
■ Ship design classified by DNV GL integrates safety,
energy-efficiency and reliabilty
■ DNV GL has an international network of experts
16 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
MPVs in service
We offer a holistic line of services to boost perform-
ance, enhance fuel-efficiency and ensure environ-
mentally friendly, profitable shipping. The DNV GL
fleet-in-service portfolio includes:
■ condition-based maintenance (CBM) systems,
which prevent unexpected breakdowns of critical
components, ensure higher machinery availability,
longer periods between overhauls and reduced
fuel consumption; DNV GL provides expert advice
in selecting the most suitable CBM for a multi-
purpose vessel
■ hull condition assessment using the DNV GL Hull
Lifecycle Programme (HLP) to monitor and assess
ship structures during their entire life cycle, as well
as DNV GL Pegasus, a tool designed to accelerate
the thickness-measurement process
■ DNV GL’s Environmental Passport, backed by a full
suite of services, helps overcome environmental
hurdles, ensure green, fuel-efficient shipping and
demonstrate compliancy with MARPOL regulations
■ FutureShip’s portfolio of Energy Consumption
Optimisation (ECO) services, which offers systematic
improvement of an MPV’s fuel and energy effi-
ciency: ECO Chances identifies areas of engineer-
ing optimisation; ECO Solutions provides detailed
studies of those areas offering the greatest return
on investment; and ECO Assistant, an easy-to-use,
stand-alone software tool that allows ships to oper-
ate at optimum trim – cutting fuel consumption and
ultimately costs
The deployment of multi-purpose vessels frequently
requires special consultation with flag states for
permission to operate such a vessel. DNV GL is highly
experienced at handling these consultations and
finding solutions that are acceptable to both flag
state administrations and shipowners.
OPERATION
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UBC MONTEGO BAY
GT: 5,630
Overall length: 108.16 m
Cranes: 2 x 36 t
Class notation: 8 GL 100 A5 E2, MULTI-
PURPOSE DRY CARGO SHIP, G, SOLAS-II-2,
REG. 19 DBC, STRENGTHENED FOR HEAVY
CARGO, USE OF GRABS, DANGEROUS
GOODS, MC AUT, MC E2 AUT
HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 17
18 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
Advisory
■ IHM/HAZMAT survey
■ IHM development for newbuildings or existing ships
■ Adaptation of management systems
■ Assessment of recycling facilities
■ IHM Green Server
■ Training of approved HAZMAT experts
■ Courses for preparation of IHM for existing ships
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has
developed a standard for ship recycling (The Hong
Kong Convention). While it may take time for the
Convention to enter into force, many prudent owners
are already taking steps to ensure that ship recycling
is done in a safe and environmentally friendly way in
anticipation of ratification by member states.
DNV GL is offering a variety of class notations that
help shipowners specify certain minimum standards
related to the use and documentation of hazardous
substances onboard during all phases of the life
cycle of a containership. Many owners and yards
Class/certification
■ Class notations
■ EP-D / EP-O / CLEAN / CLEANDESIGN
■ RECYCLABLE
■ IHM certification
are already building the appropriate document
Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM), a key provi-
sion of the Convention. In support of these efforts,
DNV GL has developed the “IHM Green Server”,
specifically designed to assist owners to keep IHM
documentation updated throughout the life cycle of
the ship, providing relevant information at the time
of recycling.
DNV GL offers advisory services that help stakehold-
ers collect information as well as develop plans and
documents for recycling and assessing recycling
facilities.
RECYCLING
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20 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
Solutions for a changing industry
Building and operating a successful fleet of MPVs
requires new technology and innovative solutions.
Those players willing to invest in new technologies
will likely achieve a strong competitive advantage in
the years ahead. DNV GL allocates 5% of its yearly
revenue to R&D to bring innovations to the maritime
industry and to maintain its position as a leader in
selected technology areas.
In addition to being at the forefront of rule devel-
opment, DNV GL is a recognised industry leader in
research and development, often working with other
stakeholders in Joint Industry Projects to produce
more fuel-efficient MPV designs with improved load-
ing flexibility. With concept studies like the one for
a heavy-lift operation, DNV GL has taken the lead in
developing new ship concepts, employing both avail-
able and emerging technologies. This has led to new
hull designs and propulsion alternatives as well as
new rules for vessels powered by alternative fuels.
The organisation contributes expertise to the de-
velopment of emerging maritime technologies and
works together with other industries to develop solu-
tions that can be applied to MPVs. In addition, DNV
GL offers recognised processes for qualifying new
technology and assists in bringing safe, commercially
viable and efficient new solutions to the market.
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Next-generation innovations in MPVs
■ Design concept for heavy-lift vessels
■ LNG propulsion in shipping
■ Cargo concept: Safety and cargo loss during lift
■ ECO Assistant
■ ECO Insight
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 21
22 HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS
C
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HIGH-PERFORMANCE MULTI-PURPOSE VESSELS 23
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H A LOCAL PRESENCE
13,000 ships and MOUs in class
100 countries
300 offices
16,000 employees
DNV GL Group
SAFER, SMARTER, GREENER
ID 7
86
89
4
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Regional Maritime offices
Region Americas1400 Ravello DrKaty, TX 77449United States+1 281 396 1000
Region ChinaHouse No. 9,1591 Hong Qiao RoadShanghai 200336China+86 21 3208 4518
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