Lashing Bridge
One of the technologies necessary for safe ship transport is the lashing of cargoes and containers. A lashing bridge is a dedicated construction used to securely lash containers on board.
Summary
Lashing systems have become diversified as containerships became larger. So, Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) and MTI have jointly developed an effective system, one that can be easily operated and yet can carry as many containers as possible. The system uses a combination of new lashing materials and a double-deck lashing bridge.
Commonly, eight lashing materials are needed per container loaded on the bottom layer on deck, but, by strengthening those materials, MTI has succeeded in halving the number of lashing materials needed. Thus, work efficiency is improved and material costs are reduced.
Features
By using a two-tiered structure only in the outermost positions of the lashing bridges on newly built 8,600-TEU containerships, the number of containers that can be stowed per vessel can be increased. This structure has already been granted design rights in Europe, South Korea, Japan, and China.
Typical Case
We can combine the new lashing materials and the new two-tiered lashing bridge on one vessel. Doing so will allow us to investigate the introduction of the new lashing system, compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two systems, and decide on the best combination for any individual case.
FAQ
- Q. Why is the two-tiered structure used only on the outermost sides of the deck?
- A. The concept is to reinforce only where needed in order to pursue maximal cost-effectiveness. Generally, lashing is most effective when it is extended horizontally from a high position. The two-tiered structure reduces burdens on the outermost sides, which positions are subject to strong winds. But the inner rows are unaffected by winds and therefore a single-tiered lashing bridge would be sufficient there. This is why there should be two tiers on the outermost sides only.
- Q. How about using three tiers?
- A. Three tiers could be more effective. But if the lashing bridge were not strong enough, any deflection might jeopardize the lashing benefit. As a result, we believe that two tiers is the appropriate choice.
- Q. Do you use any particular lashing systems on the outermost sides of the vessel?
- A. No. The lashing on the outermost sides is carried out by the standard "parallel double-cross" system.
For Additional Information
Please contact Mr. Ando in the Technical Strategy Group by telephone at +81-3-5222-7709.
Please place your inquiry directly with the above contact person or by our e-mail form.
