Harnessing The Wind: Wallenius Marine’s Innovative Ship Design

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Wallenius Marine is working on developing a wind-powered PCTC vessel. They are currently conducting advanced wind tunnel tests in Gothenburg to optimize the design and ensure maximum wind energy utilization, reports Wallenius Marine. 

Zero Emission Shipping 

The vision is to offer zero-emission shipping. Over the years, the company has put a lot of effort into research and innovation. Many tests have been carried out, and great collaborations with academia and partners have brought us to where we are today. And the journey continues.

Between 6-9 of December, Wallenius Marine is gathered with experts from RISE, KTH, and Oceanbird in Gothenburg for a series of crucial tests to validate the latest design for wind-powered PCTC vessels, a groundbreaking innovation in maritime transport. These tests will not only confirm the design but also contribute to the development of new data simulation models for wind-powered ships.

Combination of hull and multiple wings 

The tests are being conducted by the RISE Maritime Department (former SSPA), which has also constructed a 5 x 2 meter model using advanced technology. The model weighs 1.2 tons and is used to simulate the full aerodynamic performance of the ship in the wind tunnel. Previously, wing sails have been tested independently without a hull, but this combination of hull and multiple wings in a large tunnel with a full-scale model makes this test unique. This round of tests includes:

  • The interaction between the vessel’s hull and six high-tech wing sails.
  • Testing the optimal distance between hull and wing for maximum performance.
  • Testing three different types of command bridges and their impact on the vessel’s performance.
  • How “off-design conditions” affect the ship’s operation, such as when a wing sail is positioned at the wrong angle or location.
  • Data for the development of wing control systems

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Source: Wallenius Marine