Enhancing EEXI & CII(Part III): Hull Modifications with Air Lubrication and Antifouling Technologies
The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) & Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) has become an essential metric for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry. To comply with these stringent standards and improve operational efficiency, ship owners are increasingly turning to hull modification technologies such as air lubrication and antifouling coatings. These solutions not only reduce fuel consumption but also help ships maintain high performance while minimizing environmental impact. Below are the leading technologies and companies adopting these innovative hull modifications.
1. Air Lubrication Systems
Air lubrication technology reduces friction between the ship’s hull and water by creating an air layer underneath the hull. By introducing air bubbles beneath the ship, this system significantly reduces drag, which helps ships save fuel and improve their energy efficiency. Several companies have pioneered air lubrication systems, and many vessels are now adopting this technology.
- Wärtsilä: A leader in the air lubrication field, Wärtsilä offers the Air Lubrication System, which injects microbubbles beneath the hull to create a friction-reducing film. The technology has been proven to reduce fuel consumption by up to 8%, making it one of the most effective solutions for enhancing EEXI & CII.
- Silverstream Technologies: This company has developed the Silverstream® System, an air lubrication solution that has been installed on several vessels. The system uses advanced technology to introduce air bubbles under the hull, reducing resistance and lowering fuel costs. It’s been adopted by several major shipping companies, such as Maersk and Euronav.
- Cargill: Cargill has implemented the air lubrication technology in its bulk carriers. The company focuses on enhancing its fleet’s energy efficiency by adopting modern technologies such as air lubrication.
2. Antifouling Coatings
Biofouling is a significant contributor to increased drag on a ship’s hull, leading to higher fuel consumption. Antifouling coatings prevent the buildup of marine organisms on the hull, keeping the surface smooth and reducing fuel consumption. Here are some companies that offer effective antifouling technologies:
- Hempel: Hempel offers a wide range of antifouling coatings, including its popular Hempaguard system. This coating significantly reduces the impact of biofouling, preventing marine growth while providing excellent protection against corrosion. Many shipping companies around the world use Hempel’s coatings to maintain hull efficiency.
- International Paint: Intersleek from International Paint is one of the leading antifouling solutions on the market. This advanced silicone-based coating offers a smooth, low-friction surface, reducing fuel consumption by preventing the attachment of marine organisms to the hull.
- Jotun: Jotun’s Jotun SeaQuantum series of antifouling coatings have been developed to maximize efficiency by reducing fuel consumption and protecting ships from biofouling. Jotun’s coatings are widely used by major shipping companies such as Wallenius Wilhelmsen.
3. Hull Modifications & New Technologies
Besides air lubrication and antifouling, several other hull modifications can help improve a ship’s EEXI & CII. These modifications are used in conjunction with air lubrication and antifouling technologies to maximize fuel efficiency:
- Hull Cleaning and Polishing: Regular hull cleaning and polishing can improve a ship’s hydrodynamics by maintaining a smooth, fouling-free surface. Companies like Hempel and Fouling Control Technologies provide services to clean and maintain hulls for optimal performance.
- Hull Shape Optimization: Some Classification societies, such as DNV GL and Bureau Veritas, offer design services to optimize hull shapes for improved fuel efficiency. By redesigning hulls to be more hydrodynamic, these companies help ships achieve better fuel performance.
- Energy-Saving Devices: Several companies are now focusing on energy-saving devices such as fins, air bubbles, and ducted propellers. These technologies help improve propulsion efficiency and can be installed in conjunction with air lubrication systems to further improve fuel efficiency. Schottel and ABB are two companies offering advanced propulsion solutions for energy savings.
4. Combined Technologies for Optimal Results
Combining air lubrication with antifouling coatings and other hull optimization technologies can yield even greater benefits. The integration of these technologies maximizes energy savings, improves vessel performance, and ensures regulatory compliance with IMO mandates. For instance, a ship using both air lubrication and antifouling coatings can achieve reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions, and improved overall energy efficiency.
Conclusion
With the shipping industry facing increasing pressure to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency, hull modification technologies such as air lubrication and antifouling coatings are proving to be invaluable tools for improving EEXI & CII. Companies like Wärtsilä, Silverstream Technologies, Hempel, and International Paint are leading the way in adopting these technologies, and many others are following suit. By incorporating these innovations into existing vessels, ship owners can ensure compliance with the IMO’s decarbonization goals, reduce operating costs, and contribute to a more sustainable maritime future.
By adopting these advanced hull modification technologies, the maritime industry can make significant strides toward reducing its environmental footprint while simultaneously improving operational efficiency.
