The Spanish company Bound4blue has signed a collaboration agreement with Cryosafe Services to accelerate the integration of eSAIL® technology on LNG carriers. The alliance aims to optimize the installation of wind propulsion systems on LNG vessels through technical and operational studies focused on energy efficiency and regulatory compliance.
Likewise, both companies will work on evaluating specific configurations to adapt eSAIL® sails to the operating conditions of LNG carriers. Among the aspects analyzed are air draft, loading operations, gangway access, and the arrangement of mooring lines at LNG terminals and FSRU units.
Wind propulsion is gaining ground in the LNG market
The LNG carrier segment represents one of the fastest-growing areas for wind-assisted propulsion technology. According to bound4blue, factors such as high cruising speeds, available deck space, and international trade routes favor the adoption of automated wind systems.
With an optimized installation, shipowners and charterers can reduce fuel consumption and decrease polluting emissions while improving compliance with environmental regulations such as EU ETS, FuelEU Maritime and CII.
Daniel Mann, commercial director of bound4blue, noted that the collaboration with Cryosafe Services strengthens the company’s ability to respond to the technical challenges associated with LNG vessels.
Mann also highlighted that the LNG carrier market is strategic for our expansion, and that Cryosafe Services’ operational experience will allow us to address all critical factors related to LNG terminals and specialized maritime operations.
eSAIL® technology and operational efficiency
The DNV-certified eSAIL® technology uses aerodynamic principles to generate lift by directing airflow over an optimized surface. According to the company, this system can generate up to seven times more lift than conventional rigid sails of the same size.
Thanks to this, vessels can achieve greater propulsive power using a smaller installed area. This reduces the operational impact on port maneuvers and maintains compatibility with LNG terminals.
Furthermore, reducing energy consumption facilitates compliance with future regulations driven by the International Maritime Organization, including the new GFI framework.
Cryosafe Services is committed to more efficient LNG operations
For its part, Cryosafe Services will contribute operational experience in the liquefied natural gas sector and technical support for future eSAIL® integration projects.
Grant Wintle, the company’s chief operating officer, explained that wind power has significant potential to improve the efficiency of LNG carriers.
Wintle stated that his team has direct experience in LNG operations and the navigation of these types of vessels. This allows them to offer specialized technical advice to determine the most efficient configurations.
The alliance between the two companies comes amid growing regulatory pressure on the maritime industry and an increased search for decarbonization solutions for international LNG transport.
Source and photo: Bound4blue