Latest NewsPower & PropulsionNYK Bulkship to Introduce NYK Group’s First Wind-Assisted Ship-Propulsion Unit

NYK Bulkship to Introduce NYK Group’s First Wind-Assisted Ship-Propulsion Unit

NYK Bulkship (Atlantic) N.V., an NYK Group company, will introduce a wind-assisted ship-propulsion unit on a bulk carrier engaged in a long-term charter contract with Cargill International S.A., a subsidiary of Cargill, Incorporated. This will be the first time for a unit of this type to be installed on an NYK Group vessel.

NBAtlantic will equip the bulk carrier with the VentoFoil wind-assisted propulsion unit from Econowind B.V., wingsail producer based in the Netherlands. This unit is expected to help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during vessel navigation. NBAtlantic will collect data on the propulsion generated by this equipment, in addition to meteorological and ocean conditions during navigation, and measure the unit’s effectiveness in collaboration with Cargill International S.A.

Sitting on a 20-foot-long (approximately 6-meter) flat rack container with no walls, VentoFoil has a 16-meter vertical wing that plays the role of a sail. Like an airplane wing, VentoFoil creates propulsion with the pressure difference on both sides of the wing. The unit takes in wind through its suction port and obtains greater propulsion by amplifying the pressure difference. VentoFoil is smaller than similar equipment, keeping it more out of the way of cargo handling. It is also easy to install and relocate.

VentoFoil when the wing is stored

This initiative is part of NYK’s long-term target of net-zero emissions of greenhouse gas (GHG) by 2050 for the NYK Group’s oceangoing businesses. The NYK Group will utilize the knowledge gained in this research and development to promote initiatives related to various energy-saving technologies, including the use of wind power.

Latest News

The International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS), working in collaboration with the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and the Workboat Association, has announced the publication of the International Workboat Code of Practice, a 122-page guide providing best-practice guidance for the construction, operation and surveying of commercial workboats.

IIMS, IMCA and Workboat Association Launch International Workboat Code of Practice

IIMS, IMCA and the Workboat Association collaborate on a 122-page guide covering vessel safety, operational standards and crew competency for commercial workboats worldwide The International...
The world’s largest battery-electric ship has officially entered commercial passenger service, marking a major milestone for maritime electrification and zero-emission vessel operations. Built by Incat Tasmania for long-standing customer Buquebus, the 130-metre China Zorrilla has completed its maiden commercial voyage between Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Colonia, Uruguay, across the River Plate.

China Zorrilla Begins Electric Ferry Operations

Built for Buquebus to connect Argentina and Uruguay, the China Zorrilla, the world’s largest battery-electric ferry, marks a major milestone in large-scale marine electrification...
Boluda Towage has expanded its Norwegian fleet with the addition of VB NORWEGIAN FALCON, a new tug built by Sanmar Shipyards to support towing, vessel assistance and offshore operations in demanding maritime environments.

Boluda Towage Takes Delivery of VB NORWEGIAN FALCON

Sanmar-built VB NORWEGIAN FALCON features RAstar 3200 SX design, ASD propulsion and more than 6,700 hp Boluda Towage has expanded its Norwegian fleet with the...
SWITCH Maritime has secured a Design Basis Agreement (DBA) from the United States Coast Guard (USCG) for its SWITCH-150 hydrogen fuel cell-electric ferry, marking a key milestone in the development of the 150-passenger vessel. Designed by naval architecture firm Incat Crowther, the SWITCH-150 combines hydrogen fuel cell-electric propulsion with onboard hydrogen storage to support high-frequency ferry operations without compromising service schedules or requiring shoreside charging infrastructure.

SWITCH Hydrogen Ferry Clears Key US Coast Guard Milestone

The US Coast Guard agreement establishes a regulatory framework to guide construction, commissioning and future commercial operation of the hydrogen-powered ferry SWITCH Maritime has secured...

Related news