U-Ming Marine appoints UK technology provider, Anemoi, to install Rotor Sails on a VLOC

Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd. (Anemoi), a leader in wind-propulsion technology, has teamed up with U-Ming Marine Transport Ltd. (U-Ming) to install four Rotor Sails on one of U-Ming’s massive Very Large Ore Carriers (VLOC). This large vessel, weighing 325,000 DWT (Deadweight Tonnage), will benefit from this eco-friendly upgrade, aiming to reduce fuel use and harmful emissions. The installation is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

How Rotor Sails Work

Rotor Sails, also called Flettner Rotors, are tall, spinning cylinders that harness the power of the wind to help propel a ship forward. These sails work by creating extra thrust, which means the ship needs less fuel to move, leading to lower carbon emissions. Each of the four Rotor Sails for U-Ming’s vessel will stand 35 meters tall and have a diameter of 5 meters.

To make the technology even more practical, Anemoi will equip the sails with a special folding system. This allows the sails to be lowered when needed, ensuring they don’t get in the way of loading and unloading cargo or passing under bridges.

Naming Ceremony of U-Ming’s Two Bulk Carriers at New Dayang Shipyard

Significant Emission Savings

Once the Rotor Sails are installed, U-Ming’s ship is expected to save around 10-12% in fuel consumption. This reduction is particularly important for long-distance routes between major ports in China, Brazil, South Africa, and Australia. These savings are vital for meeting international shipping regulations like the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI).

Proven Success in Rotor Sails

Anemoi has already demonstrated the effectiveness of its Rotor Sails on other large ships. In June 2023, they installed four Rotor Sails on an 82,000 DWT Kamsarmax bulk carrier. In May 2024, another successful project saw four folding Rotor Sails added to a 388,000 DWT Valemax ore carrier. Both retrofits have shown impressive results, proving that Rotor Sails are an effective way to cut emissions while improving fuel efficiency.

A Solution for Greener Shipping

With climate change and environmental regulations tightening, shipping companies are looking for greener solutions to stay competitive. Rotor Sails are becoming a popular choice among ship owners because they use renewable wind energy, reducing the ship’s carbon footprint without sacrificing performance. By partnering with Anemoi, U-Ming is taking a big step toward a more sustainable future, contributing to global efforts to reduce pollution from shipping.