Update introduces new evaluation methods for wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) fatigue strength and performance in extreme conditions
Norwegian class society DNV has updated its technical standard (ST-0511), which, the company said, will support growing interest in wind propulsion systems.
“As we continue to build experience on wind-assisted propulsion systems, and as new systems come onto the market, the case for owners who are looking at these systems as part of their efficiency and sustainability strategies grows stronger,” DNV Maritime senior principal engineer Hasso Hoffmeister said.
Mr Hoffmeister said the market is intent on maintaining compliance with incoming greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and sees wind-assisted propulsion as a "valuable" tool to achieve compliance.
DNV also this week joined the International Windship Association (IWSA), a move the IWSA said strengthens support for wind propulsion.
"The interaction of WAPS with the structure of a vessel’s hull can be quite complex, so the update features a comprehensive new section on fatigue strength, including calculations that offer a completely new approach to derive the load combinations from the wind and inertia forces on WAP systems. In addition, the standard sets out a new approach to assessing how WAPS perform under extreme wind conditions. Finally, the documentation requirements have been adjusted to streamline the process," a DNV statement said.
The company said several new projects are underway that are taking the technology further and showcase the potential of wind power as both primary and additional propulsion for modern cargo vessels.
The WAPS ST-0511 standard provides a framework for the verification and certification of wind-assisted propulsion systems. It can be applied in obtaining an approval in principle, a design approval or a type approval. These verifications and certifications can also be obtained as part of the integration into a vessel or independently. The ST-0511 technical standard is a complement to the DNV WAPS class notation, which is focused on the integration of systems on board vessels, whether retrofitted or as part of a newbuilding.
DNV has officially joined the International Windship Association with the intention of using its membership status to further support and accelerate the uptake of wind-assisted propulsion systems by the global shipping fleet.
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