The wind propulsion technology

Introduction

One of the most urgent issues of our time is the climate change, and the shipping industry must play an essential role in addressing it due to both its significant environmental impact and its enormous technological potential.

A key strategy to lessen the industry's carbon footprint and aid in the fight against climate change is wind propulsion. Numerous technological developments present excellent opportunities. These approaches, including ours, enable the creation of effective and affordable wind propulsion systems that can be applied to a wide range of ships.

In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, wind energy has significant financial benefits due to lower fuel costs. According to this angle, it is crucial to implement sustainable solutions for the maritime industry and address the environmental challenge.

Wind

Wind, a universally accessible and cost-free renewable energy source, currently provides power to countless homes and businesses. Technological advancements have led to the creation of more efficient and reliable wind turbines capable of generating electricity even in low wind conditions.

Wind propulsion presents a unique opportunity to tackle the challenges of reducing carbon emissions, complying with international and European regulations, and meeting the growing demands for greenhouse gas reduction in the maritime industry. Furthermore, ship owners are seeking ways to transform their propulsion systems and invest in cleaner energy alternatives due to the unpredictable fluctuations in fuel prices.

It's imperative to consider that ships traversing our seas and oceans can be equipped with sails or wings to harness the power of the wind for propulsion. This wind technology proves particularly advantageous during long voyages, as ships can take advantage of consistent winds to sail at reduced operational costs. Additionally, the integration of wind energy with other renewable sources such as solar power or alternative fuels enables the creation of hybrid and sustainable energy systems.

Among various sustainable measures, including engine de-rating, air lubrication, more frequent hull cleaning, and the adoption of redesigned propellers, wind propulsion stands out as a revolutionary and carbon-free propulsion solution once implemented on a vessel.

 Types of sail systems

There are three principal types of wind propulsion technology: the Flettner rotor, the kite sail and the vertical deck-mounted sail, of which the wing sail is probably the most well-known.

The Flettner rotor

The Flettner rotor is a sizable vertical cylinder that is mechanically rotated around its axis, generating thrust through the phenomenon known as the Magnus Effect. Although this technology was originally conceived in the 1920s, its practical application has been limited. However, there has been a resurgence of interest in recent times. For instance, the bulk carrier Afros, constructed in 2018 with a capacity of 64,000 deadweight tons, was equipped with four adjustable rotors by Anemoi Marine Technologies. These rotors demonstrated a remarkable 12.5% reduction in fuel consumption during a round trip between Nantong and Vancouver. Additionally, Norse Power has installed rotors on various types of vessels, resulting in fuel savings ranging from 5% to 20%.

Operating Mechanism

The Magnus effect occurs when a rotating object is situated within a flowing medium, whether it be water or air. Figure 1 illustrates the force vectors associated with this effect, which can be categorized into lift and drag forces. The direction of the lift force is contingent upon the direction of rotation and is perpendicular to the flow's direction, while the drag force is smaller and aligns parallel to the flow. Just like the swirling motion of a spinning ball, the resultant of these vectors constitutes the force, or thrust, that propels the object laterally in relation to the flow. When applied to ships, fixed rotors generate forward thrust since they are firmly attached to the ship and do not move independently.

Figure 1 – Flettner Rotor

This effect is attributed to the pressure differential created on opposite sides of the rotating object, akin to the principle behind the wing of an aircraft.

While potential applications in aviation have been explored, large-scale implementations have primarily been witnessed in maritime contexts. Rotors, essentially fast-spinning vertical cylinders, exhibit superior efficiency compared to traditional sails or even modern kites because they can harness a wider range of wind angles. The optimal scenario is when the apparent wind comes from a 90-degree angle to the rotor's orientation. Unlike sails, rotors do not perform optimally when directly facing a tailwind, but by minimizing lift and maximizing drag, it's possible to obtain some propulsion in the desired direction, although this approach isn't entirely practical since lift tends to have a more significant impact than drag.

Over the years, rotor materials have evolved, with a focus on achieving the lightest possible construction while maintaining the necessary strength for seaworthiness. Researchers have explored materials such as wood and fiberglass. Critical factors under consideration include the ship's motion, including pitching and rolling, as well as vibrations linked to engine operation. External conditions, such as rough seas, weather, temperature, and humidity, also pose challenges.

The rotor contains an enclosed hollow space where all the essential equipment and sensors are housed within the cylinder, safeguarding them from the harsh external environment. The cylinder represents the sole rotating component in the system, with the inner parts remaining static. The base structure features an entry hatch door, but ship personnel do not need to enter the rotor. An emergency stop mechanism is provided on the hatch to ensure that the rotor cannot be activated when someone is inside.

Challenges and Considerations

Wind Conditions: The effectiveness of Flettner rotors depends on wind conditions. Ships may still need traditional engines for propulsion when wind conditions are not favorable.

Initial Costs: Retrofitting a ship with Flettner rotors can involve significant upfront costs. However, these costs may be offset by fuel savings and environmental benefits over time.

Size and Space: The size of the rotor and the available deck space can limit the installation of Flettner rotors on smaller vessels.

Research and Development: Continued research and development are essential to optimize the design and efficiency of Flettner rotor systems.

In recent years, there has been renewed interest in Flettner rotor technology as part of efforts to make maritime transport more sustainable. It's worth noting that Flettner rotors are just one of several wind-assisted propulsion technologies being explored in the shipping industry, and their adoption may continue to grow as the maritime sector seeks innovative solutions to reduce its environmental impact.

Kite Sails

Kite sails, also known as kite-assisted propulsion systems, are a novel and innovative technology in the realm of wind sailing. These systems use large kites or sails attached to a ship to harness wind power and assist in propulsion. Here's how kite sails work and their significance in wind sailing:

Figure 2 – Kite Sail

How Kite Sails Work

Kite sails are typically large, aerodynamic kites designed to capture and utilize the power of the wind. They come in various shapes and sizes, with some resembling traditional sails, while others may have unique designs optimized for wind capture.

Kite sails are deployed from a ship's deck or from a designated launching system. They are tethered to the ship using strong, lightweight lines. When deployed, the kite sail is positioned to capture the wind at an optimal angle. As the wind blows into the kite, it generates lift, similar to how a kite flown by a person rises into the air.

The lift generated by the kite sail pulls on the tether, transferring force to the ship. This force provides additional propulsion to the vessel, helping it move forward. The ship's crew can control the kite's angle and position to optimize its effect on the ship's speed and direction.

Significance of Kite Sails in Wind Sailing

Fuel Efficiency: Kite sails offer a significant reduction in fuel consumption for ships. By harnessing wind power, vessels can reduce their reliance on traditional fossil fuel-powered engines, leading to cost savings and lower emissions.

Environmental Benefits: Using kite sails is a sustainable practice that aligns with efforts to reduce the maritime industry's carbon footprint. This technology can help ships meet stricter environmental regulations and reduce their impact on the environment.

Range Extension: Kite sails can extend a ship's range by providing additional propulsion when wind conditions are favorable. This can be especially valuable for long-distance voyages.

Versatility: Kite sails are versatile and can be used on various types of ships, including container ships, bulk carriers, and even smaller vessels. They can be added to existing ships or integrated into the design of new ones.

Reduced Operational Costs: While there is an initial investment in kite sail technology, the long-term operational cost savings, especially in terms of fuel, can make this technology economically attractive.

Safety: Kite sail systems are designed with safety in mind. They can be easily stowed or deployed as needed, and their operation can be controlled remotely to ensure the safety of the crew and the vessel.

Kite sails are part of a broader trend in the maritime industry toward wind-assisted propulsion technologies, driven by the desire to make shipping more sustainable and environmentally friendly. As technology and design continue to advance, kite sails are likely to play an increasingly important role in wind sailing and reduce the environmental impact of maritime transport.

 Wing Sails

Wing sails, also known as rigid sails or solid wing sails, are a revolutionary technology in wind sailing that offers several advantages over traditional soft sails. They are designed to harness wind power efficiently and are commonly used in various types of vessels, including sailboats, yachts, and even commercial ships. Here's an overview of wing sails:

Figure 3 – Wing Sail

Design and Function

Unlike conventional soft sails made of fabric, wing sails have a rigid structure similar to an airplane wing. They are typically constructed from lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, or composite materials. This rigidity allows for precise control of the wing's shape and angle. Wing sails are designed with an airfoil shape, similar to the shape of an airplane wing. This design generates lift as the wind flows over and around the sail, creating forward propulsion for the vessel.

One of the key features of wing sails is their ability to adjust the angle of attack and twist along their length. This flexibility enables sailors to optimize the wing's performance according to wind conditions, much like adjusting the flaps and ailerons on an aircraft wing.

Wing sails are highly efficient in converting wind energy into forward motion. They generate more lift and less drag than traditional sails, making them suitable for high-performance sailing and racing.

Advantages of Wing Sails

Increased Performance: Wing sails can provide greater speed and upwind performance compared to soft sails. Their ability to maintain a consistent shape and generate lift even in light winds is a significant advantage.

Reduced Heeling: Sailboats equipped with wing sails experience less heeling (leaning) than boats with traditional sails, leading to increased stability and comfort for passengers and crew.

Enhanced Control: The rigid structure of wing sails allows for precise control over the sail's shape and orientation, leading to better maneuverability and responsiveness.

Efficiency in Different Wind Conditions: Wing sails can perform well in a wide range of wind conditions, from light breezes to strong winds, making them versatile for various sailing environments.

Reduced Maintenance: Wing sails require less maintenance compared to traditional sails since they are less prone to wear and tear from UV exposure and other environmental factors.

Sustainability: The increased efficiency of wing sails can lead to reduced fuel consumption in sail-assisted or hybrid propulsion systems, contributing to sustainability in maritime transportation.

Challenges and Considerations:

Cost: The initial cost of designing and building a wing sail can be relatively high compared to traditional sails.

Weight: While rigid materials make wing sails durable and efficient, they can also add weight to the rigging system, which may affect stability.

Complexity: Operating and maintaining wing sails can be more complex than traditional sails, requiring specialized knowledge and equipment.

Adoption: Wing sails are more common in high-performance and racing vessels. Widespread adoption in commercial shipping may require further technological advancements and cost reductions.

Wing sails represent a promising advancement in wind sailing technology, offering increased efficiency and performance across a range of sailing applications. As technology continues to improve and costs decrease, it's possible that we'll see broader adoption of wing sails in both recreational and commercial sailing in the future.

Although the equipment has a high degree of automation, alongside the physical fitting of the new equipment the master and crew will require additional training on the navigational software to optimize efficient sailing, and on the safe operation of the systems installed.

 Conclusion

The shipping industry is currently grappling with a significant dilemma: how to economically transport the ever-increasing volumes of goods and energy needed globally while simultaneously reducing its impact on the environment. There are distinct advantages in embracing, experimenting with, and advancing innovative technologies, such as harnessing wind energy for propulsion, which offer genuine potential to help the shipping sector tackle this challenge.

A notable benefit of wind propulsion systems lies in their self-sufficiency; they function as independent machinery with autonomous operation. Consequently, any malfunctions within these systems do not lead to propulsion failures.

Recent progress in software development, material science research, and control engineering has resulted in lightweight, user-friendly, and efficient systems. When retrofitting older vessels, the installation process for these systems is straightforward and expeditious.

It is foreseeable that environmental regulations will become more stringent in the future, with bunker costs remaining a primary operational expense. The adoption of these systems presents a compelling option for reducing emissions and achieving cost savings.