Marflet Marine to install four WAPS sails on its tanker

The Spanish shipping firm has contracted the wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) manufacturer Bound4blue to provide the sails. 

PHOTO: A concept image of Santiago I installed with sails. Marflet Marine

The installation of the four sails is scheduled for mid-2025. The 22-meter-high sails will be installed on Marflet Marine’s oil and chemical tanker Santiago I. 

The installation of these sails will enable Santiago I to reduce marine fuel consumption.

WAPS technology has become popular among shipowners as it aids fuel efficiency. The technology draws on aerodynamic forces, creating a vacuum which causes the sails to spin. During favourable wind conditions, the sails will allow the vessel's main engine to throttle back and save fuel consumption while providing enough power to maintain speed.

By Manjula Nair

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