In a bold stride toward eco-friendly maritime practices, Vale, a global mining giant, has entered into a groundbreaking agreement with Omani shipowner Asyad to usher wind power onto the world’s largest ore carrier, the Valemax.
This transformative initiative involves the installation of cutting-edge rotor sails developed by British manufacturer Anemoi. The ambitious adaptation project on the Valemax, known as the Sohar Max, is slated for completion in the second quarter of 2024, ushering in a new era of energy efficiency and emission reduction in maritime transportation, says an article published on vale website.
Revolutionary Technology Aboard The Sohar Max
The Sohar Max, a colossal vessel spanning 362 meters in length and 65 meters in width, capable of carrying up to 400,000 metric tons of cargo, is set to become a beacon of sustainable shipping.
The integration of five cylindrical rotors, towering at around 35 meters in height and 5 meters in diameter, marks a significant leap in wind propulsion technology.
This enhancement, doubling the windage area compared to previous models, is poised to deliver efficiency gains of up to 6%. Importantly, it is projected to cut CO2 equivalent emissions by a substantial 3,000 tons per ship per year.
Comprehensive Approach, Vale’s Ecoshipping Program
The rotor sail installation on the Sohar Max is part of Vale’s comprehensive Ecoshipping program, an ambitious R&D initiative aimed at revolutionizing the shipping industry and aligning with the carbon reduction goals set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
This initiative represents the sixth and final agreement with Asyad, with previous projects encompassing innovative technologies such as silicone paint to reduce resistance, frequency inverters for electricity consumption reduction, and hydrodynamic devices for enhanced propulsion.
Real-time data collection systems are deployed across the fleet to monitor the efficacy of these technologies.
Wind Energy, A Central Role In Decarbonization
Vale’s Shipping Technical Manager, Rodrigo Bermelho, underscores the pivotal role of wind energy in the company’s strategy to decarbonize maritime transportation of iron ore.
He emphasizes that the insights gained from the Ecoshipping pilot projects, including the implementation of rotor sails on the Sohar Max, will be invaluable for shaping the next generation of Guaibamax ships.
Unlocking the Magnus Effect, How Rotor Sails Propel Ships?
The science behind the rotor sails lies in the Magnus Effect, where cylindrical rotors turn to create a pressure difference that propels the ship forward.
This innovative technology offers the prospect of reducing the power and energy consumption of the ship’s main engine during favorable wind conditions. The result: substantial fuel savings while maintaining optimal speed and travel time.
As Vale sets sail into a sustainable future, the adoption of rotor sails on the Sohar Max stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to pioneering technologies that reshape the maritime industry’s environmental footprint.
The project not only marks a milestone for Vale but also contributes crucial data and insights for the advancement of green shipping practices worldwide.
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Source: vale
