5000 years back, ancient Egyptians floated up and down the Nile River using sailing boats. But after the introduction of steam and diesel, sailboats withdrew from main merchant routes. They are coming back to business today to lead a greener marine industry.
Decarbonization and the Push for Innovation
Decarbonization has been currently practiced highly in the marine industry, even though it’s slow. Modern technology can accelerate this transition with innovations that can lower CO2 emissions. Wind propulsion is clean, free, and environmentally friendly energy. The marine industry has always tried to make its merchant ships more eco-friendly along with improved efficiency.
Michelin’s Wing Sail Mobility Project (WISAMO)
Recently, several innovations have been coming up to transform the sector. One among them is the Michelin Group. The group unveiled the concept for an inflatable wing sail that will provide wind propulsion for ships in the 2021 Movin’On global sustainable mobility summit. The company expects the first ship to be fitted with the sail to float by 2022.
The Wing Sail Mobility Project (WISAMO) is an initiative that tries to generate wind-assisted propulsion to help decarbonize the maritime industry. WISAMO is an automated, telescopic, inflatable wing sail system.
How Inflatable Wing Sails Work
The inflatable wing sail harnesses the wind as a source of propulsion. The design is revolutionary as it reduces fuel consumption, thereby lowering CO2 emissions. According to the vessel, route, and weather, the efficiency of the ship can be increased by 20%, the designer of Michelin claims.
The system can be installed on most merchant ships and pleasure vessels. The design best fits for ro-ro ships, bulk carriers, and oil and gas tankers. The concept has been developed so that it can be fitted as original equipment on new builds or retrofitted on in-service vessels. The telescopic mast is retractable, making it easy for a ship to enter harbors and pass under bridges.
Michelin’s Commitment to Sustainability
Michelin highlighted several initiatives the company is taking to reduce the environmental impact of its supply chain. In February 2021, Michelin also announced that it was joining a growing number of global brands committing to use a sail-powered carbon-free shipping alternative for its products.
Maritronics, a leading marine service provider, has all geared up to welcome new changes in the marine industry sector. A team of service engineers is already working on how to make ship service a better, greener experience.
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