Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) announced that it has invested in 13 Mari Ltd., a U.S.-based company which develops ripple-shaped “Flowsmart” elements. These elements are added to ship hulls to help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. MOL aims to develop and offer new solutions for reducing emissions.
In particular, the ripple-shaped Flowsmart element developed by 13 Mari uses technology, which has been incorporated into the shape of aircraft wings and as aero parts for automobiles, and it is based on the concept of controlling the flow of water near the hull to reduce drag and bring out the original performance of the vessel. The company aims to improve the fuel efficiency of vessels and achieve stable navigation.
The ripple-shaped Flowsmart elements are expected to reduce GHG and fuel consumption by 3%-7% on vessels retrofitted with 10 to 20 of the elements, and even more when combined with currently available energy-saving devices such as wind propulsion systems and various types of fins.
These elements can be retrofitted to both new and existing ships with minimal cost and effort, making them a practical solution for reducing emissions across various shipping sectors, including dry bulk, energy, and product transport. They are particularly useful for small and medium-sized ships, where space constraints limit wind propulsion systems, and in the dry bulk sector, where next-generation fuels face design and port restrictions.
MOL aims to drive GHG reductions and advance new technologies in the maritime industry. Under its “MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.2” the company targets net-zero emissions by 2050, with energy-saving innovations as a key strategy.
