ClassNK Activities related to Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS)

Summary

The video discusses the development of wind-assisted propulsion systems for ships, focusing on innovations in Japan. It highlights the successful implementation of rigid wing sails on vessels, including the first FRP-based rigid sail system, which reduces fuel consumption by up to 8%. The video also covers safety standards set by Class NK to ensure the safe and effective integration of these systems, the ongoing research, and future plans for expanding wind-assisted technologies. The aim is to support the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts with practical solutions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Class NK has been involved in advancing wind-assisted propulsion systems for ships, contributing to a growing focus on decarbonizing maritime transport.
• 😀 The world's first FRP-based rigid wing sail, developed by Japan, was delivered in November 2022, marking a significant milestone in this technology.
• 😀 The rigid wing sail system has shown potential for fuel savings, with up to 8% savings on routes from Japan to North America and 5% savings on routes to Australia.
• 😀 Ongoing demonstrations and tests are being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of these sails, including trials on the maiden voyage from Japan to Australia until March 2024.
• 😀 Class NK has published safety standards for wind-assisted propulsion systems, including guidelines on the design, installation, and maintenance of these systems on ships.
• 😀 The guidelines ensure safety and environmental compliance, addressing factors such as structural design, load combinations, and operational procedures for these systems.
• 😀 Class NK supports projects like the Wind Challenger and other wind-assisted propulsion systems, promoting collaboration among Japanese companies such as JX Group and Mitsubishi Corporation.
• 😀 The development of wind-assisted systems is part of a broader trend towards greener maritime operations, with a focus on reducing emissions and optimizing fuel consumption.
• 😀 Class NK is continuously updating its guidelines, with a revised version (2.0) set to be released, reflecting industry feedback and recent trends in the sector.
• 😀 The implementation of these wind-assisted propulsion systems is expected to grow, with various companies and projects aiming to introduce and retrofit systems on vessels in the coming years.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the presentation in the script?

The presentation focuses on the development of wind-assisted propulsion systems, particularly rigid-wing sails, and the role of Class NK in ensuring safety standards and certification for their integration into shipping.

What significant milestone was achieved in Japan with the rigid-wing sail technology?

In 2022, Japan achieved a world-first with the delivery of a ship equipped with a rigid-wing sail made of FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic). This was the first operational system of its kind.

What are the expected fuel savings from the rigid-wing sail technology on different routes?

On a route from Japan to North America, the rigid-wing sail system is expected to save over 8% in fuel, while on the route to Australia, savings of more than 5% are anticipated.

What is the Wind Challenger project, and what role did Class NK play in it?

The Wind Challenger project is an initiative to develop and implement rigid-wing sails for commercial shipping. Class NK issued the Approval in Principle (AIP) for this concept in 2019 and has been involved in ensuring safety standards for its integration into ships.

What kind of ship was the first to be equipped with the rigid-wing sail system?

The first ship to be equipped with the rigid-wing sail system was a bulk carrier, ordered to a machine building company and delivered in November 2022.

How has Class NK contributed to the development and safety of wind-assisted propulsion systems?

Class NK has provided safety standards, certification, and support for the system’s design, installation, and operational safety. They conduct surveys to ensure compliance and have published updated guidelines to facilitate the introduction of these systems.

What was the purpose of the demonstration test mentioned in the script?

The purpose of the demonstration test was to confirm the effectiveness of the rigid-wing sail in reducing fuel consumption, with the goal of conducting these tests until the end of March 2024.

What are some of the challenges and considerations when installing wind-assisted propulsion systems on ships?

Challenges include assessing the aerodynamic load, ship motion, green sea load, and ensuring that the structural design of the ship can accommodate the system without compromising safety. Class NK's guidelines address these challenges in detail.

What is the significance of Class NK’s updated 2.0 guidelines for wind-assisted propulsion systems?

Class NK’s updated 2.0 guidelines, published in 2025, incorporate feedback from real-world projects, improving the quality, comprehensiveness, and detail of the standards for system design, safety, and maintenance.

How is Japan's maritime industry responding to the need for decarbonization in shipping operations?

Japan's maritime industry is increasingly adopting wind-assisted propulsion systems as a solution for decarbonizing shipping operations. This is evidenced by the active involvement of companies like K-Line, which are retrofitting ships with kite systems, and the support of major corporations like JX Group and Mitsubishi.