MOL, Vale To Conduct Joint Study On Use Of Wind Propulsion System ‘Rotor Sail’ On Bulk Carrier

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) announced an agreement with Vale International SA (Note 1) to conduct a joint study on the installation of a wind propulsion system called “Rotor Sail” (Fig.1) on a 200,000-ton class in-service bulk carrier, which mainly transports iron ore for steel production. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the vessel while underway.

Rotor Sails are unique, tall cylindrical sails that can be installed on the deck of commercial vessels. The Rotor Sails make use of the aerodynamic phenomenon known as the ‘Magnus Effect’.

As the cylinder rotates within an airflow, a forward thrust force perpendicular to the apparent wind direction is created, which delivers additional thrust to the vessel. The thrust generated can either provide additional vessel speed or maintain vessel speed by reducing power from the main engine.

Rendering of Rotor Sail
Figure: 1 | Image Credits: mol.co.jp

The joint study team will examine and verify the number of Rotor Sails to be installed and the effect of GHG reduction, working closely with Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd (Anemoi), the manufacturer of the Rotor Sails. Anemoi, based in the U.K., installed the world’s first Rotor Sail on a newbuilding Ultramax bulk carrier in 2018.

The MOL Group is implementing five initiatives (Fig.2) to realize the mid-to-long-term targets set out in the “MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.1”. Including this opportunity, we will pursue one of the initiatives “Enhancement of Energy-Saving Technologies” and continually strives to reduce GHG emissions in cooperation with leading companies in various industries, with the goals of “Achieving net zero GHG emissions by 2050.”

initiatives to realize MOL vision
Figure: 2 | Image Credits: mol.co.jp

(Note 1) Vale International SA
The world’s leading mining company, with annual iron ore production capacity of about 335 million tons.

Press Release

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

Latest Shipping News You Would Like:

Get the Latest Maritime News Delivered to Your Inbox!

Our free, fast, and fun newsletter on the global maritime industry, delivered everyday.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *