Hapag-Lloyd Highlights 1.5% Bunker Savings from Trim Optimisation

Hapag-Lloyd used trim optimisation software on 86 ships that it operated in 2016. Image: Hapag-Lloyd

Hapag-Lloyd AG (Hapag-Lloyd) says trim optimisation is an "integral part of efficient voyage execution," with the company achieving fuel savings of about 1.5 percent of main engine consumption in 2016 through the method.

"This saving was achieved despite the fact that the potential for trim optimisation was reduced, due to some vessels of the fleet being retrofitted with new bulbous bows," said Hapag-Lloyd.

"The new bulbous bow improves the overall resistance of a ship and hence potential for trim savings is reduced."

In 2016, Hapag-Lloyd says it utilised trim optimisation software on 86 ships that the company operated, including 60 owned and 26 chartered.

The software calculates the hydrodynamic resistance for any floating position of the ship, based on Reynolds-Navier-Strokes equations (RANSE).

The company notes that trim monitoring also enables the evaluation of vessel hull performance through the use of hydrodynamic models that can trend hull resistance and fouling and inform decisions for inspection and cleaning if required.

"With this knowledge Hapag-Lloyd wants to further extend the coverage of our fleet with trim optimisation. Our chartering department is already working with ship managers across the globe to install trim optimisation software on board their vessels,' explained the company.

"With these improvements we foresee a future where our vessels are even more efficient and always enjoy smoothing sailing while at sea."

In February, Hapag-Lloyd, in its report covering the company's 2016 Q4 and full year financial results, said lower bunker costs were a main driver behind the company's reduced transport costs, which declined by 12.3 percent in 2016, falling to €6.4 billion ($6.79 billion) from €7.3 billion ($7.75 billion) in 2015.