NSU to Install Rotor Sails to Valemax VLOC

(Posted on 19/10/24)

NS United Kaiun Kaisha, Ltd. (NSU) and Vale International SA (Vale:) have reached an agreement to install rotor sails (H:35m x D:5m x 5 unites) manufactured by Anemoi Marine Technologies Ltd. (Anemoi) on 400,000dwt-type VLOC, NSU TUBARAO(the Ship), which has been engaged in a long-term transportation contract between NSU and Vale since its delivery in September 2020. The installation of the rotor sails on the ship is scheduled around September 2025.

A rotor sail is a device to obtain propulsion by using the pressure difference generated around a cylinder by rotating a cylindrical sail installed on the deck. It is expected to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from the Ship by approximately 6~12%

NSU has been actively working to make their vessels more efficient and reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the introduction of energy-saving devices such as rotor sails and by transitioning to ships powered by next-generation fuels.

Vale is committed to supporting the maritime industry in achieving the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) decarbonization targets. Aligned with the ambition of the Paris Agreement, Vale also has a target of a 15% reduction in scope 3 emissions by 2035, related to the value chain, of which shipping emissions are part, since the ships are not owned by the company. Focused on adopting and leveraging technologies and fleet modernization to reduce GHG emissions, Vale created the Ecoshipping program, a R&D initiative based on a strong partnership with shipowners. Since 2018, the company has been operating second-generation Valemaxes (capacity of 400,000 tons) and, since 2019, Guaibamaxes (capacity of 325,000 tons) - these vessels are among the most efficient in the world. As part of the Ecoshipping program, Vale developed innovative energy-efficient projects, such as the rotor sails project, and a pioneering project to incorporate multi-fuel tanks on iron ore carriers.

Anemoi is a leading provider of rotor sails to the shipping industry. Its energy saving technology offers significant reductions in fuel consumption and lowers CO2, SOx and NOx emissions to deliver more efficient ships.

Anemoi Marine Technologies is a leading provider of Rotor Sails to the shipping industry. The energy saving technology offers significant reductions in fuel consumption and lowers CO2, SOx and NOx emissions to deliver more efficient ships.

Following extensive research and development, Anemoi has commercialised the product for widespread adoption by the global merchant fleet. With a background in the bulk carrier sector, Anemoi’s patented design addresses operational considerations, proving it can work for the majority of sectors.

Rotor Sails play a key part in addressing industry environmental targets and creating a sustainable future of shipping.