News items selected for weekly newsletter
Kongsberg Maritime’s rim-drive azimuth thruster has made history by receiving the prestigious Silent-E notation from DNV. The thruster’s success was showcased on the Norwind Hurricane vessel, where it effectively reduced underwater noise pollution. This certification underscores the company’s dedication to environmental protection and highlights the thruster’s energy-saving benefits and operational efficiency.
The Finnish tech group Wärtsilä is collaborating with Norwegian shipowner Eidesvik Offshore to convert the “Viking Energy” offshore vessel to run on ammonia fuel by 2026. This transformation makes it the world’s first ammonia-powered vessel in operation, reducing emissions by at least 70%. Equinor supports this initiative to meet global emissions targets.
The Panama Canal is preparing for a potential drought, with plans to expand capacity for larger ships and increase water reservoirs. Despite past drought challenges, efforts are being made to increase vessel passage and revenue targets. With a focus on water conservation and operational efficiency, the canal is gearing up for future challenges.
Banks involved in the Poseidon Principles are weighing the option of reducing lending to shipowners who put their crews at risk. By monitoring safety commitments, financial institutions like ING and Citigroup are aiming to promote better treatment for seafarers. This initiative reflects a growing emphasis on social responsibility within the maritime industry.
Waterfront Shipping, a subsidiary of Methanex Corporation, successfully completed its first ship-to-ship methanol bunkering demonstration in Trinidad and Tobago. This milestone, achieved in partnership with various organizations, highlights methanol as a safe, cleaner fuel for a low-carbon future. The event positions Trinidad and Tobago as a key player in decarbonizing the maritime sector.
Singapore has implemented new measures to test foreign seafarers for monkeypox upon arrival, reminiscent of early COVID-19 pandemic protocols. Starting August 23, the health ministry will conduct temperature and visual screenings at the nation’s airports for inbound travelers from regions at risk of monkeypox outbreaks. Similar measures will also be in place at sea checkpoints for crew and passengers arriving from affected areas.
A non-banking financing company is in development under the Sagarmala initiative to support the shipping and shipbuilding sectors. The proposal, led by the Shipping Ministry, is awaiting approval from the Finance Ministry and RBI. Expected to be operational by December 2024, the NBFC aims to address funding challenges faced by maritime companies and shipyards.
Class society ABS is spearheading a project in Singapore to boost the use of additive manufacturing (AM) in the maritime sector. The aim is to streamline the approval process for AM parts through a “model-based qualification framework,” making it faster and more cost-effective. This initiative is set to make AM more attractive to boatbuilders.
A total of 122 Filipino seafarers have chosen not to sail in the high-risk waters of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, exercising their “right to refuse sailing.” The Department of Migrant Workers revealed that ship owners have respected their decision, leading to limitations in voyages or sending them home. The Department of Foreign Affairs advised seafarers to prioritize safety and enforce bans on hiring for vessels with past incidents.
Engineers at MIT have developed a groundbreaking physics-based model for accurately representing airflow around rotors, crucial for improving rotor design and wind farm layout. Led by MIT postdoc Jaime Liew, the study provides a new theory for rotor aerodynamics, revolutionizing wind turbine power optimization and performance. Supported by NSF and Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, this research marks a significant advancement in the field.
The International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) has evolved into an Intergovernmental Organization (IGO) after years of effort and diplomatic conferences. This transformation will strengthen collaboration with governments, enhance global maritime navigation safety, and establish standards for navigation aids worldwide. The shift signifies a new era of cooperation and unity in maritime navigation.
In the first seven months of 2024, there was a significant increase in the contracting of product tankers larger than 10k DWT, with 194 tankers totaling 13.3m DWT ordered. The order book has rapidly expanded, with Chinese shipyards securing 72% of the orders. However, the industry may face challenges in balancing supply and demand in the near future due to strong market conditions and low recycling rates.
The shortage of firefighting foam chemicals poses a safety risk on 40,000 sea vessels. New regulations will phase out PFOS, a harmful compound. Ship owners must replace foams at first survey after January 1, 2026. VIKING offers services for a smooth transition to safer alternatives, despite logistical challenges. Port state control will enforce compliance strictly.
The Association of Licensed Manning Agencies (ALMA) Maritime Group has lauded the recent ratification of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, specifically the reinstatement of Section 59. ALMA raised concerns over the removal of this section from House Bill 7325, emphasizing the need to protect seafarers from opportunistic lawyers seeking financial gain.
In celebration of Women’s Day, TPNA of South Africa showcased an all-women crew leading shipping operations at major ports. Grade 10 girls studying maritime studies were given the opportunity to witness vessel operations firsthand. TNPA emphasized the importance of introducing maritime studies in high school to build a pipeline of future mariners and promote gender diversity in the maritime industry.
