Klaveness Combined Carriers ASA (KCC), a leading player in the maritime sector, has installed bound4blue’s eSAIL wind-assisted propulsion system on the new CABU III vessel . This collaboration with Jiangsu New Yangzi Shipbuilding and Jiangsu Yangzi Xinfu Shipbuilding ensures that CABU III is one of the first tankers and bulk carriers to incorporate this advanced suction sail system, raising the bar for energy efficiency in the industry.
Advantages of the eSAIL system
The eSAIL is based on bound4blue’s suction sail technology , which uses fans to optimize airflow across its aerodynamic surface, creating a thrust that reduces the vessel’s fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions . eSAIL sails stand out for their autonomy and low maintenance, allowing the system to operate without constant crew intervention, facilitating offshore operations.
Suction sails operate by means of a ventilation system that optimizes the wind pressure around the sails, maximizing the thrust generated without significantly altering the structure of the vessel. In addition, eSAIL is designed to adapt to different types of vessels , such as tankers , bulk carriers and ferries, reinforcing its versatility and efficiency on various routes and weather conditions.
This system has been approved by DNV and is offered in various dimensions, with the 24-metre model for CABU III being the largest installed to date. With this technology, KCC aims to reduce the carbon intensity of its fleet by 45% by the end of the decade.
A commitment to sustainability and efficiency
KCC’s decision to invest in bound4blue’s wind technology arose from an exhaustive study comparing various propulsion alternatives. With a $32 million investment in 15 efficiency measures, the aim is to reduce the fuel consumption of its newest vessels by 15% and continue to lead the change towards greener shipping . According to Engebret Dahm, CEO of KCC, “ this partnership with bound4blue is a key tool to advance towards our decarbonisation goals .”
For his part, David Ferrer, CTO of bound4blue, said that this contract “ marks an achievement ” as it is the first installation of eSAIL in a new construction project in China, providing an autonomous and effective solution to reduce emissions.
KCC is at the forefront of adopting carbon-reducing technologies in the maritime sector , reducing its emissions compared to conventional vessels. This project, which will begin in 2026 with the CABU III , represents a new step towards green shipping and confirms KCC’s commitment to sustainable practices.
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Source and photo: Klaveness Combination Carriers
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