To meet this need, the vessels are much wider than other vessels in the same size class. Their larger beam gives them a larger loading capacity on a limited draft. The unique design of the hull and the twin skeg give both fuel economy and speed characteristics that are as good as or better than standard tonnage.
At the forefront of safety
The MAX concept takes safety to a new level. The vessels are built with double systems for propulsion and manoeuvring, just like an aircraft. They have two separate engine rooms separated by fireproof and watertight bulkheads. All control systems are separated and each engine has its own fuel system. Additionally, double rudders and propellers provide better manoeuvrability, which is also a major advantage in terms of efficiency and safety.
The bridge is designed to provide a 360° view and is equipped with a co-pilot system, i.e. double control systems. This enhances safety and facilitates training. A double hull is a matter of course.
Three ship types so far
The MAX concept has been developed in close cooperation with primarily Stena Bulk, Stena Teknik and Northern Marine Management. Since the concept began to be developed at the end of the 1990s, three ship types have been produced; V-MAX, P-MAX and C-MAX (which is owned by Stena).
P-MAX
Concordia Maritime’s P-MAX tankers combine transport economy and flexibility with the very highest safety.
Thanks to the hull design, the vessels can carry about 30 percent more cargo than a standard tanker with the same draft.
They have been designed to transport both crude oil and refined products. Effective tank cleaning and the design of the cargo tanks mean that switching between different petroleum products is fast with a minimum risk of contamination.
On the integrated bridge, the officer on watch, in contrast to conventional product tankers, is able to monitor all the systems on board simultaneously. This, together with superior manoeuvrability, contributes to safe navigation in narrow waters.
All P-MAX tankers are certified by the classification society Det Norske Veritas (DNV) with a so-called Green Passport. This certification means that all hazardous materials on board the vessel have been identified and documented. This certification is voluntary and is the result of close collaboration between the shipyard and DNV. Flexible loading capacity and high safety make the P-MAX a profitable investment. Greater safety does not in itself translate into higher profitability, but it represents a competitive advantage over tonnage with lower safety.
V-MAX
The 313,000 dwt V-MAX tankers Stena Vision and Stena Victory were the first to be built in accordance with the MAX concept. Their design gives them a 20–40 percent higher loading capacity compared with a conventional VLCC and 70–100 percent higher loading capacity than a Suezmax tanker.
Since the end of 2009, Concordia Maritime no longer has any V-MAX tankers at its disposal.