Elomatic, an international consulting and engineering company, has signed an agreement with Northwestern Europe’s leading multi-modal logistics provider, CLdN, to install its patented Elogrid tunnel thruster technology on two new RoRo vessels that are currently under construction.
The Elogrid tunnel thruster grid is an energy saving device, designed to maximise side thrust for better manoeuvrability, whilst unlocking new levels of performance, efficiency, and sustainability. Designed for installation of both new build and retrofit projects, Elogrid supports a wide variety of vessel types, by helping to reduce additional resistance and lower fuel consumption, whilst minimising noise and vibrations throughout the vessel. This provides a smoother, more comfortable journey, extends the lifespan of onboard equipment, and reduces the environmental impact of maritime operations.
Developed between 2020 and 2021, Elogrid has evolved to achieve even greater levels of performance. This innovative solution has been found to reduce fuel consumption by 1-2% per thruster tunnel, depending on speed, by reducing flow entry into the bow thruster tunnels at cruising speeds as well as providing further reductions in associated vibrations. The installation to CLdN’s RoRo vessels are scheduled for Q1 and Q2 of 2025, with Elomatic supervising the installation of the system to ensure quality and precision.
Jukka Suvanto, Senior Sales Manager at Elomatic commented on the announcement: “Elogrid offers a significant advantage in meeting carbon reduction standards and enhancing fuel economy. These benefits align with Elomatic’s broader strategic goals, which include supporting the shipping industry’s transition toward greener operations.”
David Vermeulen, CTO at CLdN said: “CLdN is committed to finding new ways to further enhance the performance of its fleet and reduce its environmental footprint. The Elogrid tunnel thruster grid is an innovative solution that fits well with CLdN’s efforts in remaining the RoRo operator in North West Europe with the lowest CO2 footprint and we look forward to deploying our latest 8.000 lane meter G9e new-build RoRo vessels with this technology.”
