Land-Based Tests Underway for Seawing Automated Kite System
Japan's Seawing Kite System Advances Toward Commercial Use
Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, known as “K” LINE, has announced significant progress in the development of its innovative Seawing kite system. The company’s subsidiary, Oceanicwing, has successfully completed the first phase of land-based testing, marking a crucial step toward commercializing this wind-assisted propulsion technology. The Seawing system aims to harness high-altitude winds to enhance vessel efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Seawing System: A Game Changer in Wind-Assisted Propulsion
The Seawing kite system stands out among various wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS) currently under development. Unlike its competitors, Seawing is designed to generate a substantial amount of thrust by utilizing high-altitude winds. This innovative system can be installed on any vessel, including those already in operation, making it a versatile solution for the maritime industry. The automated system deploys a kite attached to a tether near the bow of the ship, allowing it to harness natural wind power effectively.
Earlier tests of kite systems have been conducted in France, with validation tests carried out in 2023 using a RoRo vessel for Airbus. In the latest round of testing, completed in June, Oceanicwing evaluated the tensile strength and overall performance of the Seawing system using a 300 square meter kite at a designated land test site. The results were promising, prompting “K” LINE to initiate phase two of the development process in July.
During this next phase, Oceanicwing plans to increase the size of the kite and further assess its tensile strength, reliability, operability, and safety. The company is also gearing up for tests on a large bulk carrier owned by “K” LINE, with the aim of completing these evaluations within the next two years. The anticipated outcome is a reduction in fuel consumption by over 10 percent, although actual savings will vary based on factors such as ship type, speed, route, and seasonal conditions.
Future Prospects for Seawing Technology
The Seawing system represents a significant advancement in sustainable shipping technology. By leveraging wind power, it offers a promising solution to reduce the environmental impact of maritime operations. As the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to adopt greener practices, innovations like Seawing could play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.
With ongoing developments and testing, “K” LINE is committed to bringing the Seawing kite system to practical application. The company’s efforts reflect a broader trend in the shipping industry towards integrating renewable energy sources to enhance efficiency and sustainability. As the project progresses, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how Seawing can transform the future of maritime propulsion.
