NYK set to introduce its first wind-assisted bulk carrier

Before being put into a long-term charter with Cargill International, the NYK Bulkship Atlantic (NBAtlantic) – owned by NYK – will be fitted with an Econowind VentoFoil wind propulsion assist device. This marks the first time that one of NYK’s bulk carrier vessels will feature the emissions-reducing technology.

Designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions during operations, the NBAtlantic – in collaboration with Cargill – will also gather data on weather, sea conditions and thrust generated by the VentoFoil device.

Attached to a 6m flat rack, the VentoFoil works much like a conventional sail and consists of a vertical 16m wing, delivering additional propulsion due to the pressure difference on either side of the device – much like an aircraft wing. Wind is taken in through a suction port and propulsion is provided by amplifying the pressure difference.

Due to its compact design, installation or relocation can be carried out easily and efficiently. Furthermore, Econowind claims that the device can reduce fuel consumption by 10-30%.

The new initiative is part of NYK’s plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 through the introduction of energy-saving technologies, including wind propulsion.

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