An investigation on cost-effective tanker design configurations for reduced oil outflow

This paper reports on an investigation of the cost-effectiveness of selected design risk control options considered for improved environmental protection from the operation of crude oil tankers. The analysis has been carried out for representative Panamax, Aframax, Suezmax and VLCC tankers and elaborates on design modifications for enhanced cargo tank subdivisions, increased double bottom height and increased side tank width with the view to establish cost-effective trade-offs between oil outflow reduction and associated life-cycle implementation costs for new-buildings. The results demonstrate the applicability of the investigated risk control options and their potential contribution to reduced oil spills.

► Analysis carried out for large crude oil tankers, covering Panamax, Aframax, Suezmax and VLCC tankers. ► Configurations considered include cargo tank subdivision, double bottom height and side tank width. ► Establishment of cost-effective trade-offs between oil outflow reduction and associated life-cycle costs. ► Investigated configurations proved cost-effective and their potential for oil spill reduction demonstrated.