ARGE SHALLOW DRAFT BULK CARRIER TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT

Abstract

This report is a summary of the findings of an investigation into the technical feasibility and economic justification of the operation of large restricted draft bulk carriers conducted under contract of the U.S. Maritime Administration Office of Maritime Technology (1). The Large Shallow Draft Bulk Carrier Technology Assessment Study is one element in the over-all program of examining U.S. bulk shipping needs for the future and of ascertaining its impact on the economy and social well-being of the United States. By 1985 the U.S. bulk shipping will exceed 2.5 Long Tons per day. If present trends in bulk shipping continue, it is anticipated that the majority of the world-wide dry and liquid bulk cargoes will be moved by 150,000 dwt to 250,000 dwt bulk carriers, none of which can presently enter a U.S. port fully loaded. To continue with the present use of small to medium (20,000 dwt - 70,000 dwt) bulk carriers, would not only increase the cost of raw materials but also would cause port congestion. More than 300 ships per day of present size will be required to handle the flow of bulk commodities anticipated; far more than present port facility capability.