Wallenius Marine is taking significant strides toward zero-emission shipping by testing an innovative wind-powered Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) vessel design. The company is conducting advanced wind tunnel tests in Gothenburg, Sweden, leveraging one of Europe’s most sophisticated facilities capable of simulating wind speeds up to 250 km/h. These tests mark a pivotal moment in the development of sustainable maritime transport.
Pioneering Zero-Emission Shipping
Wallenius Marine’s latest project aligns with its vision to achieve zero-emission shipping through innovative research and collaboration. The company, alongside experts from RISE, KTH, and Oceanbird, is undertaking a series of crucial tests from December 6-9 to validate the design of the wind-powered PCTC vessel. These tests aim to refine aerodynamic performance and establish new simulation models to advance the maritime industry’s understanding of wind-powered propulsion.
Carl Fagergren, Senior Project Manager at Wallenius Marine, emphasized the importance of this stage, stating “We are currently at a central stage in the design process where we want to ensure that our design meets all technical and operational requirements before we finalize the tender design.”
Unique Wind Tunnel Testing
The tests are being conducted by the RISE Maritime Department (formerly SSPA) using a meticulously crafted 5 x 2-meter model weighing 1.2 tons. This model combines a hull and six high-tech wing sails, setting a new benchmark in wind tunnel testing for maritime applications. Key aspects being analyzed include:
- Hull-Wing Interaction: Assessing how the vessel’s hull and wing sails work together aerodynamically.
- Optimal Wing Placement: Determining the best distance between the hull and wings for maximum efficiency.
- Command Bridge Configurations: Testing three bridge designs to evaluate their influence on vessel performance.
- Off-Design Conditions: Analyzing scenarios where wing sails are misaligned to understand their impact on operations.
The data gathered will contribute to developing advanced wing control systems, ensuring optimal performance and safety for wind-powered vessels.
A Milestone in Sustainable Shipping
These tests represent a significant milestone for Wallenius Marine, building on a vision first sketched in 2017. The next major phase of this project will occur in 2025 when the Oceanbird wing sail is installed and tested aboard Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s vessel Tiranna. This live testing will provide critical insights to further refine the design and performance of wind-powered PCTC vessels.
The success of these wind-powered vessel tests could redefine the future of maritime shipping, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable industry.
About Wallenius Marine
Wallenius Marine is a leader in sustainable shipping and innovative vessel design. Offering a full suite of services, including ship design, crewing, maintenance, and marine IT, the company is a key player in advancing eco-friendly maritime solutions. As part of the Soya Group, which celebrates its 90th anniversary this year, Wallenius Marine continues to prioritize sustainability and social responsibility in its operations.
Source Wallenius Marine