Dutch research organisation Marin says it is advancing the understanding of hull air lubrication systems with new full-scale measurement solutions aimed at quantifying their true effectiveness.
As air lubrication systems are increasingly installed on ships, questions remain about their actual energy-saving potential and optimal operation under real conditions. To address this, Marin is developing a suite of innovative sensors to observe and measure the local behaviour of the air lubrication layer. These include observation equipment, gas fraction sensors and wall shear stress sensors, each providing insights into flow characteristics and performance impacts.
By combining these measurement techniques, shipowners can gain clearer, data-driven insight in how air lubrication influences speed, power and efficiency, supporting more informed operational decisions and system optimisation.
Marin is seeking partners to further develop full‑scale air lubrication measurement techniques and bring the technology onboard.
Image: Marin is investigating the effectiveness of air lubrication (source: Marin)
