CMA CGM trialling windshield prototype to cut emissions and fuel costs

French container shipping company CMA CGM is trialling a windshield prototype onboard one of its containerships to improve aerodynamics and, in turn, reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

PHOTO: A prototype windshield onboard containership CMA CGM Marco Polo. CMA CGM

A windshield is a curved metal surface attached to a ship's bow that can enhance the aerodynamic effect, which reduces drag considerably and leads to fuel efficiency. This, in turn, reduces emissions.

CMA CGM has equipped its containership CMA CGM Marco Polo with a windshield prototype, the development and installation of which it claims took over six months.

CMA CGM has stated that if “results are conclusive, the same windshield will be installed in other CMA CGM vessels.”

A growing number of shipowners are exploring new ways to increase the fuel efficiency of their vessels to reduce emissions immediately and save on bunkering costs.

Last month, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) chose to install air lubrication systems on six of its new LNG carriers to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. An air lubrication system uses air from air release units (ARUs) in the hull to generate air bubbles that run continuously beneath the ship’s surface, forming a coat of air that reduces friction significantly.

By Tuhin Roy

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