Technology Research Center

As "a laboratory in harmony with the environment," the center is an eco-friendly facility that leverages a comprehensive range of environmental and energy-saving technologies all around us-solar energy, natural lighting systems, an ice storage cooling and heating system, and high-speed variable air volume (VAV) control system that reduces energy loss in air conditioning operation.

The laboratory has space for two 40-foot reefer containers, as well as an engine testing room.

Solar panels
(power monitor)
Natural lighting and
illumination control system
Ice storage cooling and
heating system
Exhaust treatment device/
high-speed VAV system in laboratory

Outline

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. Technology Research Center
2-2-9 Kurigi, Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa 215-0033 Japan
Phone: 044-988-9481
Fax: 044-988-9483

Directions

About a 13-minute walk from Kurokawa Station on Odakyu
Tama Line (south exit)

Map (The center and its surrounding area)

History

1957 : Established Fuel & Lubricating Oil Laboratory in Kobe
1970 : Moved to Yokohama
1982 : Established as Ship Operation Technology Research Center in Tokyo
1988 : Renamed Technology Research Center
2010 : Moved to Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa Pref.

Main Equipment/Machinery

  • High-frequency plasma (ICP) luminescence analysis device
  • Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) device
  • X-ray fluorescent spectrometer
  • Differential-thermal and thermogravimetric device (TG-DTA)
  • Gas chromatography (GC)
  • Particle counter
  • Automatic viscometer
  • Neutralization value automatic titration device
  • Automatic pour point tester
  • Test engine
  • Optic combustion analyzer (OCA)
  • Reefer containers for testing

Operations

Fuel and lubricant analysis

The center analyzes the characteristics of fuels and lubricants used aboard MOL Group-operated vessels and uses the results to prevent damage to engines and ensure vessel safety. What's more, it determines the safety and combustion characteristics of fuel oils available in different regions, and analyzes lubricants for performance and conformance with standards.

Research and development

The center also engages in R&D aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of ocean cargo transport and the development and application of new technologies related to vessel machinery and equipment and cargo-handling equipment.

- Verification Using Test Engine -
The center's test engine
(4-stroke, 3-cylinder, 200mm bore, 900 rpm, 478 hp)

The center has a diesel engine that uses heavy oil as fuel, and is used to assess fuel oil and lubricating oil.

  • Objective confirmation and verification of technologies aimed at reducing fuel consumption
  • Assessment of measures to reduce exhaust emissions of NOx, SOx, and CO2
  • Developing additives for fuel oil and lubricants and assessing their effectiveness
  • Research related to exhaust gas purification systems
  • Testing under contracts with organizations, universities, and other corporations that do not have their own test engines.
- Verification using advanced technologies -
The center proactively applies new technologies in demonstration tests aimed at boosting the efficiency of ship operations and maintenance.
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