Tsuneishi Shipbuilding of Japan has won the first order for a new upgraded Handymax type, the TESS42. Tsuneishi confirmed receiving the first order for several examples of its new 42,000 dwt TESS type in late June, extending the TESS (Tsuneishi economical standard ship) portfolio.

The vessels are to be constructed at Tsuneishi’s shipyard in China, Zhoushan yard in Zhejiang province.

Designated as the TESS42, it combines increased deadweight with an advance in operational efficiency relative to the preceding TESS38 Handysize class.

With main dimensions of 180m length and 10.5m draught, the TESS42 retains the length of the TESS38, while expanding the beam slightly to ensure the increased load capacity did not affect the draught. Although the increase in absolute deadweight from the TESS38 is about 2,000t, the capacity gain is some 4,000t at equivalent draughts.

The TESS42 includes cargo securing equipment to permit the carriage of logs on the deck, at the same time as bulk cargo in the vessel’s holds. The vessel features four deck cranes, wide-opening hatch covers, and semi-box-type cargo holds suitable for transporting steel products.

Tsuneishi states that by fitting the newest electronically-controlled engine, the TESS42 will reduce fuel consumption per tonne mile by 4% or more at the same draft and same vessel speed as TESS38, extending the operational range and the vessel’s environmental performance.