Several methods for the reduction of SO _X emission are analyzed and compared by adopting the design scheme of the washing tower arrangement for a Panamax type 61 000 DWT bulk carrier regarding to the requirement for the sulfide emission limitation of IMO. It studies the problems and influences that are caused by the installation of the washing tower, such as the influence of the washing tower installation on the ship performance, the arrangement and the support strength of the washing tower, and its influence on the hull vibration.