HMM puts wind-assisted propulsion to sea test

South Korean shipping firm HMM has deployed an oil and chemical tanker equipped with a wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) for sea trials.

IMAGE: HMM-owned Oriental Auramarine tanker with wind-assisted propulsion system. Linkedin of HMM

The WAPS features a single rigid sail, also known as a wing sail, designed to capture wind energy to help propel the vessel.

“It's wing-shaped structure generates lift, similar to that of an aircraft wing, helping to reduce fuel consumption,” HMM said.

The company estimates the system could cut fuel consumption by around 5-20% on the Oriental Aquamarine, depending on operating conditions.

HMM added that it will evaluate the performance of the wind technology over the next two years before deciding whether to roll it out across its entire bulk carrier fleet.

By Konica Bhatt

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