A research team at Chalmers is the first to demonstrate a unique method that reduces the aerodynamic resistance of ships by 7.5 per cent.
A research team at Chalmers is the first to demonstrate a unique method that reduces the aerodynamic resistance of ships by 7.5 per cent. This opens the way for large cargo ships borne across the oceans by wind alone, as wind-powered ships are more affected by aerodynamic drag than fossil-fueled ones.
To hit international climate targets, the carbon emissions from shipping must be reduced by more than 50 per cent by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. As much as 99 per cent of global shipping is currently dependent on fossil fuels. Even though electricity may carry smaller ferries across shorter distances, the electrification of larger, longer-haul ships is hampered by range limitations. This means that the need for new energy-efficient propulsion technology solutions for shipping is both major and urgent.
Researchers at Chalmers are the first to have successfully demonstrated a new method that may pave the way to significantly lessen the climate impact of shipping. Inspired by an aerodynamic technology used in aviation, the researchers have found a way to reduce a ship’s aerodynamic drag by 7.5 per cent. The result is increased energy efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.
Read more at Chalmers University of Technology
Image: Illustration of a wind-powered ship. Its wing sails are one of the designs that can be used to harness wind power for large ships. Other design types include rotor sails (which look like vertical cylinders) and kite sails. (Image credit: computedwingsail.com via Chalmers University of Technology)
