Norsepower, a global leader in mechanical sails, and DNV, the world’s foremost classification society, have set a new standard in the maritime industry by achieving the Type Approval Design Certificate (TADC) for the explosion-proof (EX) version of the Norsepower Rotor Sail™ (NPRS™) 28m x 4m. This is the first-ever approval for a Wind Assisted Propulsion System (WAPS) to be used in hazardous zones onboard vessels, marking a significant advancement for the use of wind-assisted technology in maritime operations.
Certification Details and Safety Standards
The TADC certifies that Norsepower’s NPRS™ EX version meets the rigorous safety and performance requirements for installation on vessels carrying flammable or explosive liquids or gases, such as tankers. This certification streamlines the approval process for shipbuilders, significantly reducing the documentation and discussions needed for class approval of ships equipped with these innovative rotor sails.
Innovative Explosion-Proof Design
Norsepower’s explosion-proof design is a major step forward in maritime safety. The system ensures that all critical components inside the rotor sail, including the power unit and electrical cabinets, are safeguarded by a holistic, pressurized air system that eliminates flammable gases. This advanced design complies with EX safety standards, offering greater protection and efficiency compared to previous component-based systems.
Collaboration Between Norsepower and DNV
Heikki Pöntynen, CEO of Norsepower, highlighted the importance of the collaboration with DNV in achieving this milestone. The partnership, which began with the development of the first-ever WAPS-related Type Approval Design Certificate, has played a key role in advancing safety standards within the industry. Knut Ørbeck – Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime, emphasized that as the maritime sector works towards decarbonization, technologies like Norsepower’s Rotor Sail™ that enhance energy efficiency are crucial.
Norsepower’s Role in Shaping the Future of Maritime Wind Propulsion
This achievement builds on years of collaboration between Norsepower and DNV, starting with the initial TADC for the NPRS model 30m x 5m. The certification underscores Norsepower’s leadership in the wind propulsion sector and its ongoing commitment to innovation and environmental sustainability. With this new certification, Norsepower Rotor Sails™ are now more versatile, meeting safety standards while contributing to the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry.
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Source: Norsepower Rotor Sails