Maersk S-class capacity increased

"We will both lower the slot costs on these vessels and reduce the CO2 emissions per container moved, meaning we'll be able to be more competitive and with a lower environmental impact - true undisputed leadership", says Abhijat Chahal from Maersk Line, Vessel Management.

Just now, Carsten Maersk is steaming towards Ningbo, China, for reintegration to the network following the successful operation to raise its navigation bridge - and increase its capacity by 1,418 TEU.

A further 15 S-class vessels will undergo the same treatment as part of Capacity Boost — Maersk Line's new Operations project to enable market share growth without the need for buying more ships.

"It's difficult to rely only on 'newbuildings' for having the opportunity to gain market share", says Chahal.

"Capacity Boost, therefore, is looking at how we can innovate with our current vessels to grow capacity and enhance our ability to take market share."

Capacity Boost is the umbrella for many projects looking to get more containers on the ships. Several projects are in the pipeline to reach a 52,000 TEU target, including challenging industry standards on container stacking when it comes to line of sight and wind speeds; but it is the initiative to raise the bridge platforms of vessels which will take the headlines for its audacity.

Through this, more than 20,000 extra TEU will be added to fleet capacity. Altering a ship's structure to increase cargo intake was an opportunity that became apparent as market conditions changed and new industry practices developed. Bigger ships sailing at slower speeds, as well as the development of port infrastructure, have made such structural changes viable.

The elevation work is being carried out by the Bei Hai yard in Qingdao, China. The changes to the first 16 vessels are scheduled for completion by third quarter 2012.

Source: Maersk Line / maritimedanmark.dk