EMP to Launch Bunker Saving Marine Control System

Aquarius MAS will be able to perform a number of different functions.

Eco Marine Power (EMP) says that this September it plans to release its Aquarius Management & Automation System (Aquarius MAS), a new marine computer system with features that include the monitoring of bunker consumption, controlling of equipment such as auxiliary generators, and alarm handling.

"The Aquarius MAS will not only be an alarm and performance monitoring system but will also be able to monitor emissions, fuel use, and the amount of energy being harnessed via solar panels, wind power devices, or our EnergySail technology," EMP's Greg Atkinson told Ship & Bunker.

"For Eco Marine Power this is a major step forward as we now have a computer platform to which we can integrate various wind & solar power solutions to which in turn can also be integrated with the ships propulsion and power generation systems."

The system, which was first announced in May, is being jointly developed with KEI System of Osaka, Japan, and is based on its KEI 3240 Data Logger.

"The KEI 3240 Data Logger has been installed on around 400 ships to date," said Atkinson, "so we know it is reliable, flexible, and robust."

The Aquarius MAS can also be connected to a global positioning system (GPS), the data from which can be used in conjunction with optimal ship routing systems, helping to both further reduce fuel use and lower emissions.

EMP has previously announced partnerships with Italian solar cell technology firm Solbian Energie Alternative (Solbian), and Canadian lithium ion battery specialists Corvus Energy (Corvus).

"We plan to start projects this year where we combine Solbian's solar panels, Corvus' energy storage modules, and the Aquarius MAS into an integrated renewable energy solution for ships which can be installed on new ships or retrofitted to existing ships," Atkinson explained.

EMP says it hopes the systems will be able to reduce the bunker consumption of most vessels from tugs and passenger ferries, right up to Capesize bulk carriers and ultra large containers vessels.