South Korea Launches Innovative Wing Sail Testing
South Korea is making strides in maritime technology with the launch of its first domestically developed wing sail for wind-assisted propulsion. HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) and HMM have initiated a demonstration period aboard the product tanker Oriental Aquamarine. This initiative aims to enhance green ship designs and improve fuel efficiency in the shipping industry.
Performance Assessment of the Wing Sail
The wing sail, measuring 30 meters (98 feet) in height and 10 meters (33 feet) in width, has been installed on the Oriental Aquamarine, a 50,000 dwt tanker built in 2020 and owned by HMM since 2023. The vessel, registered in Liberia and measuring 183 meters (600 feet) long, will serve as a testing ground for this innovative technology over the next two years. HMM plans to analyze operational data to evaluate the wing sail’s performance, with the potential to expand its use across its entire bulk fleet based on the results.
The technology is particularly beneficial for vessels that do not carry deck cargo, such as bulk carriers and tankers. HMM anticipates that implementing wind-assisted technology could lead to fuel savings ranging from 5% to 20%. HD KSOE has previously secured an Approval in Principle from DNV for its wind-assisted technology concept, and the design has undergone rigorous safety and performance verification through onshore demonstrations.
Innovative Features and Future Prospects
The wing sail system includes auxiliary wings on both sides to optimize efficiency and features a tilting function that allows the wings to be folded during adverse weather conditions. Recent sea trials have confirmed the system’s normal operation, and inspections by the Korean Register have validated its readiness for real-world application. The data collected during this demonstration will be meticulously analyzed to understand the wing sail’s operational characteristics in marine environments, paving the way for the development of commercial models.
Wing Sails Wind-Assisted Propulsion in the Marine Industry: An Overview
Industry analysts predict a growing trend in wind-assisted propulsion due to its relatively low capital costs and the incremental fuel and emissions savings it offers. Installations of such systems are reportedly doubling each year, with projections nearing 100 large vessels equipped by the end of this year. As the maritime sector continues to seek sustainable solutions, this innovative wing sail technology represents a significant step forward in reducing the environmental impact of shipping.
