Hitachi Zosen Completes 3,800-TEU Containership Zhen He 45-Knot Hull Form

The M.V. Zhen He, a containership capable of carrying 3,800-teu containers, was recently completed at Hitachi Zosen's Ariake Works and delivered to the owner, China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO). Hitachi Zosen is now building two sister ships for the same owner, scheduled for delivery this month and in June. The Zhen He is the largest type of container ship ever delivered by Hitachi Zosen and is also reportedly one of the largest vessels that can enter Shanghai harbor and pass through the Panama Canal. The ship's load efficiency is enhanced by arranging the holds with 11 rows of spaces for containers, the first such design for Hitachi Zosen-built container ships.

This hold arrangement makes it possible for the ship to carry 3,800-teu containers, the largest number that can be carried by ships of this type and size. The Zhen He can also load 240 refrigeration containers on the upper deck, and its holds No.

2 and No. 6 are equipped to carry dangerous cargoes. The main engine is a Hitachi Zosen- Sulzer 9RTA84C-type diesel engine. The Zhen He is 49,375-gt, 902 feet (275 m) long with a breadth of 106 feet (32 m) and depth of 70 feet (21 m). For more information on Hitachi Zosen,