Silverstream Technologies and Shell have confirmed a net efficiency saving of over 4% in fuel consumed following the use of air lubrication technology on a 40,000 DWT tanker.
The Silverstream System was installed on-board MT Amalienborg and data was extracted under business-as-usual operations in all operating conditions.
Operational data showed that running at increased speed brings increased savings, verified by Professor Dominic Hudson, Shell Professor of Ship Safety and Efficiency within the Faculty of Engineering and the Environment at the University of Southampton. Professor Hudson confirmed that net power savings of 4.1% were delivered at 14 knots.
Furthermore, sea trial data indicated that larger vessels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers and Suezmax tankers may achieve up to 8% in efficiency savings.
The system has continued to developed over the past two years, making engineering improvements to result in negligible drag when the system is switched off and improvements in compressor efficiency and installation footprint have been made to further increase savings and net efficiency.
Using a unique cavity design and energy balance, very little power is required to generate the mico-bubble layer. This layer reduces the frictional resistance between the water and the hull to improve the efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and lessen emissions.
Noah Silberschmidt, CEO, Silverstream Technologies commented: “Transparency about our savings results and the fact they are based on operational conditions provides assurance to the industry that the Silverstream System delivers real savings and tangible results.”
David Connolly, Senior Principal Technologist at Shell Shipping Technology stated: “The rigorous testing process and successful performance during operational conditions proves that the Silverstream System can reduce ship fuel consumption and lower emissions accordingly. This is an important innovation that can improve shipping efficiency.”
The technology is applicable to both newbuilds and as a retrofit. Sea trial results were verified by The Lloyds Register Ship Performance Team.
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