NYK Group Trials Innovative Suction Sails for Sustainable Shipping

Japan’s NYK Group, through its NYK Bulkship operator, has recently implemented its first suction sails as part of a trial for wind-assisted propulsion. This move aligns with the growing trend of shipowners exploring alternative propulsion methods to reduce vessel emissions. NYK Bulkship had announced plans a year ago to retrofit two wind foils onto one of its Panamax bulkers, which is under a long-term charter to Cargill. The installation of the suction sails was completed in Rotterdam and the vessel is now en route to Brazil.

The NBA Magritte, a 2013-built 82,000 dwt bulker, had two suction sails retrofitted onto it. These sails, developed by Dutch-based company Econowind, are designed to create additional propulsion force through a suction port, similar to an airplane’s wing. NYK reports that the suction design is expected to generate five times more force compared to foils without the suction feature. The sails can be folded down and operated from a touch panel on the bridge.

Following the installation, the NBA Magritte will gather data on the propulsion generated by the suction sails, as well as record meteorological and ocean conditions during navigation. Collaborating with Cargill and NYK R&D subsidiary MTI Co., the aim is to analyze the data to assess the effectiveness of the wind-assisted propulsion system. Cargill, as the charterer of the vessel, is actively testing various wind propulsion technologies and sustainable shipping methods, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility in the maritime industry.

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