Germanischer Lloyd's (GL's) Route Specific Container Stowage class notation has been named the technological innovation of the year at the Containerisation International 2013 Awards ceremony in London.
The awards are given in recognition of companies and individuals that have contributed to the container liner shipping and logistics industry, through being innovative, proactive and pioneering.
Lashing Systems Focused on the North Atlantic
Traditionally rules and layouts for vessel lashing systems have been based on the stormy North Atlantic routes. This ignores the potential of tailoring plans to reflect the reduced wave and wind loads of other routes, increasing the stowage potential of a vessel.
Route Specific Container Stowage
GL developed rules for the Route Specific Container Stowage (RSCS) class notation by combining long-term statistical wave data with advanced computations, taking into account current market developments, for routes with better weather conditions.
Heavier Containers in Higher Positions
With RSCS, ship operators have greater flexibility in stowing heavier containers in higher positions on deck. This is because the centre of gravity of shielded stacks can be increased by up to 21%. Furthermore, a significant increase of in-hold stack weight for 20-foot stowage – up to 25% – can be achieved.
Nominal capacity can also be increased and an additional tier can be added where the line of sight is not affected.
Easy Implementation
To implement RSCS, owners and managers have to adopt an addendum to the Container Securing Arrangement plan and install or update a certified lashing computer on board. No further retro-fitting measures or equipment are needed.
