TOKYO - Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL, President: Akimitsu Ashida) today announced the introduction of a new tanker cargo handling simulator, based on the most advanced double-hull very large crude carriers (VLCCs) at the MOL Training Center in Montenegro.


The type of the simulator provides senior officers with realistic training on pre-discharging　 cargo pipe pressure tests and pre-docking cargo pipe cleaning, in addition to normal loading/discharging operations.


Trainees can simulate opening/closing of local valves that are operated on deck and in the pump room, by touching the valves of the cargo piping diagram on three large plasma displays. This simulates communication between the cargo control room and the site of the actual equipment. Thanks to the large, clear plasma display, the trainees can view still and moving images or computer graphics of cargo machinery and valve operation for an authentic training experience.


In addition to equipment and machinery images and the piping diagram, the new simulator can also easily display selected drawings of the equipment to help the trainees with self training.


MOL is also considering introducing this simulator at seafarer training centers in Japan and the Philippines that provide tanker cargo handling training for officers and crew members. The company will incorporate practical training with the simulator in the training curriculum, and continues to upgrade the skills of seafarers who serve onboard its tanker fleet. This will ensure safe operation and environmental protection, as ultimate goal stated in MOL’s Corporate Principles.