Super Marine Gas Turbine
The 2500kW gas turbine will be the next-generation main engine for ships. Its nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are one tenth those of diesel engines, yet it delivers comparable fuel efficiency. Thus, it has a dramatically lower impact on the environment. R&D for this technology is underway, and the program for FY1997 to FY2002 has research funds totaling 2.5 billion yen. The Technological Research Association for Super Marine Gas Turbines was established in March 1997 to conduct that R&D. Developing this gas turbine encompasses the following the study areas: (1) technologies to reduce the burden on the environment, (2) technologies to improve fuel efficiency, and (3) technologies for marine application.
Ship Research Institute
The Ministry of Transports Ship Research Institute was established in July 1915 to serve as a marine supply testing laboratory for the Ship Equipment Inspection Station under the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunication and Transport. It was upgraded in December 1931 to the status of a special agency of the Ministry. The laboratory undertakes basic and advanced studies as well as studies commissioned by the government on safety, environmental protection, energy, and performance improvement in relation to vessels, marine structures, marine organizations, and marine products. Main studies cover the following areas: structural safety assessment of items which have adopted light-weight technologies, compilation of earth observation database, development of the marine observation support system, evaluation and processing of toxic exhaust gas, prevention and clean-up of oil spills, research into the effects of acids and oxides in East Asia, performance of fuel-cells, basic characteristics of ultraspeed vessels (Techno-Superliner), assessment of vessel lifespan, anti-vibration cabins, and assessments of marine transportation systems. The laboratory also develops and installs of ultra-1arge floating offshore structures and enforces environmental protection in the vicinity of these projects, as well as the development of nuclear power for vessels and nuclear fuel transportation technologies.
