KCC to equip next four vessels with Silverstream System air lubrication technology

Klaveness Combination Carriers (KCC) will retrofit four additional vessels with the Silverstream System, an air lubrication technology that reduces fuel consumption and subsequent CO₂ emissions.

The technology will be installed first on CleanBUs Barracuda and Barramundi, with CABUs Balboa and Baffin to follow. They join the already outfitted MV Ballard and upcoming MV Baru, bringing the total number of KCC vessels fitted with Silverstream’s technology to six.

The Silverstream System uses a series of air release units (ARUs) located along the flat bottom of the vessel. Oil-free compressors generate pressurized air that is sent through the ARUs, creating a layer of microbubbles that lubricate the hull, thereby reducing the friction between the hull and water. This reduction leads to a decrease in net fuel consumption and the subsequent CO₂ emissions.

It is expected the Silverstream solution will reduce emissions by an average of 5-7% on KCC’s vessels. In addition to the agreed four vessels, KCC carries options for vessels built 2016-2021 to also equip the technology.

Engebret Dahm, CEO of KCC, commented, “Improving the energy efficiency of our fleet through proven and reliable technologies is crucial to our commitment of delivering cost-effective decarbonization for our customers. Early performance data from the first installation of the Silverstream solution on MV Ballard in September confirms a fuel consumption reduction in line with our expectations. We look forward to expanding its rollout.”

Noah Silberschmidt, founder and CEO of Silverstream Technologies, added, “Our collaboration with KCC goes from strength to strength. They are a great collaboration partner for Silverstream Technologies and we are proud to support them on their journey toward net zero. The wet and dry bulk segment is an important one for Silverstream and we are pleased to be able to demonstrate the savings our Silverstream System achieves in-service on these efficient combination carriers.”

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