Mitsui O.S.K. Lines has acquired a stake in 13 Mari, a US-based company that develops and designs accessories for underwater hulls with the aim of reducing aerodynamic drag and increasing vessel efficiency.
The ripple-shaped Flowsmart elements produced by the company reduce drag caused by wave generation during navigation and swirls created by the ship’s forward motion.
Hull attachments can be installed on both newbuildings and vessels in service. It is expected that the installation of 10-20 Flowsmart elements on each ship will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption by 3%-7%, or even more.
Since the installation does not require substantial capital investment and can be carried out on a wide range of vessels, MOL envisages Flowsmart elements being fitted on dry bulkers and tankers and considers this technology particularly appropriate for small and medium-sized vessels.
Translation by Giles Foster