Lomarlabs collaborates with Advanced Wing Systems to develop modular sails

Lomarlabs, a subsidiary of UK-based Lomar Shipping, has partnered with semi-rigid sail maker Advanced Wing Systems to develop a modular wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS).

IMAGE: Illustration of a vessel equipped with Advanced Wing Systems’ modular sails. Lomarlabs

Unlike conventional wind-assist installations that require major retrofitting and dry-docking, Advanced Wing Systems is developing a modular setup deployed from a standard 40-foot container.

Once deployed, the collapsible wing sails can be tuned to the prevailing wind and fully retracted when not needed, avoiding disruption during port calls.

This modular design allows shipowners to trial wind propulsion without committing to permanent structural changes or high upfront costs. The system can also be leased in the same way operators currently lease shore-power transformers or portable generators, Lomarlabs stated.

The technology "changes the game for wind propulsion. It means shipowners can trial this system without the need to take their vessel out of trading, without capital risk, and without compromising operations,” Greg Johnston, chief executive of Advanced Wing Systems, said.

By Tuhin Roy

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