World News
MOL Testing New Bunker Saving Windshield
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) says it has begun testing a new windshield device on its containership MOL Marvel that is intended to reduce wind resistance, thereby saving fuel and reducing its CO2 emissions.
“With today's larger containerships, the height of the containers loaded on their decks has increased, subjecting the vessels to greater wind resistance. MOL recognized the need to address this issue in a cost-effective way,” explained the company.
"Development of the new device began with an examination of the bow's aerodynamic form through wind tunnel testing.”
The windshield’s horseshoe-shaped design, which has met Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK) rules concerning wave impact pressure, is said to enclose to the front line of the stacked containers in order to maximize wind reduction and minimize the weight of the unit.
MOL explains that by setting containers placed along the sides of the vessel obliquely behind the windshield, the vessel’s sides become more streamlined, further improving performance.
“With those measures, MOL expects an annual average reduction of 2 percent in CO2 emissions, assuming the device is mounted on a 6,700 TEU containership plying the North Pacific Ocean route at speed of 17 knots.”
In addition to improved efficiency, the windshield is also said to offer protection to vessels from green water on the bow deck during bad weather.
MOL says it developed the device along with MOL Techno-Trade, Ltd., Ouchi Ocean Consultant, Inc., Akishima Laboratory (Mitsui Zosen) Inc., and the University of Tokyo.
The company also notes that the project was supported by the ClassNK’s “Joint R&D for Industry Program.”
In July, Ship & Bunker reported that MOL has ordered methanol-powered carriers as part of its overall environmental strategy.
Key Bunker Prices More
| VLSFO | MGO | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $/mt | +/- | $/mt | +/- | |
| Singapore | 624.50 | 1.00 | 732.00 | 8.50 |
| Rotterdam | 571.00 | 3.00 | 758.00 | 16.50 |
| Houston | 591.50 | 4.00 | 760.00 | 5.50 |
| Fujairah | 629.00 | 0.50 | 877.50 | 3.00 |
| Global 20 Ports Average | 637.00 | 0.00 | 819.00 | 3.00 |
| Global 4 Ports Average | 604.00 | 0.00 | 782.00 | 5.50 |
| Global Average Bunker Price | 688.00 | 2.50 | 879.00 | 1.00 |
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