ClassNK has confirmed the validity of the performance analysis evaluation for the ‘Seawing’ automated kite system being developed by Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (‘K’ Line) and its French subsidiary Oceanicwing.
The classification society has issued a Statement of Fact (SoF). According to ClassNK, environmental regulations and the need to reduce fuel costs, are responsible for increased interest in the implementation and installation planning of wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS), including kite systems. In response to the need for standards for WAPS and ships equipped with such systems, ClassNK has been updating the Guidelines for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems for Ships, first issued in 2019, based on operational experience and knowledge gained to date. In accordance with these guidelines and other relevant rules, ClassNK issued an Approval in Principle (AiP) for the Seawing in 2020.
In this latest assessment, ClassNK reviewed performance analysis evaluation documents submitted by ‘K’ Line and Oceanicwing based on actual data obtained from land-based testing using the Seawing system with 300 m² kite. Through this review, ClassNK confirmed that the verification processes for the tension generating the ship’s traction force and system performance are appropriate.
ClassNK says it will continue to support efforts toward further introduction and practical operation of WAPS, as well as the evaluation of their performance.
Image: Masaki Matsunaga, EVP, ClassNK, hands over SoF certificate to Shingo Ikeda, Managing Corporate Officer, ‘K’ Line (source: ClassNK)
