bound4blue has made a significant advancement in maritime innovation with its eSAIL® technology, having recently secured the Type Approval Design Certificate (TADC) from DNV.
The issued certificate validates complete compliance with the classification society’s Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS) technical standard, demonstrating that the team’s breakthrough suction sail technology is in line with the industry’s most advanced rule set.
With the TADC in place, bound4blue expects “accelerated technical due diligence processes” with customers, paving the way for a simpler system roll-out. This will help shipowners, removing the burden of individual quality validation, speeding up access to eSAIL® benefits including reduced fuel consumption and emissions, lower OPEX, and simplified compliance with the most stringent regulatory demands.
Renewable results
The fully autonomous system works by dragging air across an aerodynamic surface, generating exceptional propulsive efficiency. The simple, low weight and easy to install units significantly cut main engine loads, fuel use and emissions.
It’s a proposition that has won contracts with shipowners and operators including Odfjell, Eastern Pacific Shipping, Amasus, Marflet, Louis Dreyfus Company, and more.
Accelerating adoption
Ferrer comments: “We’ve always been focused on developing a technology according to the very highest standards and meeting the most rigorous quality and safety requirements. Receiving the TADC from DNV provides third-party validation of that excellence, quality stamping our system and helping fast-track customer due diligence procedures. We believe this will work to accelerate the adoption process and facilitate further orders.”
The TADC (DNV Standard ST-0511 Wind-assisted Propulsion Systems) prepares the ground for eSAIL® installation onboard DNV classed vessels.
Speaking of the DNV certification, Hasso Hoffmeister, Senior Principal Engineer at DNV Maritime, notes: “Wind is an inexhaustible, free, zero carbon energy source, which is receiving increasing attention within the maritime industry. To harness its potential, owners require trusted systems, with validated technical and design compliance, to ensure the highest quality standards. DNV, with our world leading expertise is committed to helping our customers innovate and build confidence in these new technologies on a foundation of trust.”
