A new generation of motor-rotor-sailing ships is currently being developed especially for short sea trade. The basis is a 4.000 dwt multipurpose vessel. 15 partners are cooperating to implement a lightweight design of a wind sail system with aerodynamic rotors for small coasters.
High rotational speeds of the ECO FLETTNER-rotors are supposed to exploit the energy of a wide range of wind speeds. The engine propulsion, the fuel consumption and therefore noxious emissions can be reduced by the additionally obtained thrust through wind energy. Two high performance ECO FLETTNER-rotors with a sail area of about 108 square meters will take over up to 100% of the propulsion power demand under optimal wind conditions.
Credits: Wind Hybrid Coaster – ECO FLETTNER/YouTube
The propulsion concept of the WHC includes the sail system and an engine drive, which consists of generators and two electric motors. The addional engine power is transmitted via a drive shaft with a fixed pitch propeller and is supposed to allow a service speed of 12 knots. The drive system is adjustable and with increasing sailing performance the engine power can be reduced efficiently. At present the ECO FLETTNER-prototype is being build in Leer and will be tested at next on a trial ship.
For first function tests on shore a trial version of the GRP-cylinder manufactured and the rotor pivot with bearings, electrical drive and control unit are erected and in function.
Following the tests on shore the ECO FLETTNER will be installed on a ship for first sea trials under real weather conditions. After proof of safe and economic operation a new green ship prototype with a tailor-made rotor drive system is being developed. The so called “Wind Hybrid Coaster” is designed to meet all market requirements for the coastal trade at a minimized carbon footprint.
Reference: Wind Hybrid Coaster – ECO FLETTNER/YouTube
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