ERMA FIRST has launched a new energy saving device, FLEXCAP, that builds on the capabilities of propeller boss cap fins to optimise maritime efficiency.
In particular, as the company claims, by enabling fins to catch and absorb the rotating water force, the solution weakens the propeller hub vortex, reduces torque and means more energy can be channelled back into the propulsion drive train as thrust.
Propeller boss cap fins (PBCF)
Propeller boss cap fins (PBCF) are easy-to-retrofit and cost-effective. Energy saving devices can help a vessel in order to comply with the EEXI (Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index) regulation as well as the CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) rating of a vessel.
According to ERMA, the resultant increase in propulsive efficiency can yield fuel savings of two to five per cent, which translates into operational cost savings and a relatively quick return on investment.
As a practical and cost-effective means of achieving regulatory compliance, energy saving device also have a major part to play.
… said Konstantinos Stampedakis, ERMA FIRST Co-Founder and Managing Director
Provided the vessel can be sufficiently trimmed, the technology can be installed while the ship is afloat, ERMA claims. Alternatively, installation can be carried out while the vessel is at sea using underwater services. Once fitted, the only maintenance the solution needs is polishing during routine cleaning intervals.
ERMA also noted that the boss cap fins can also be deployed to minimise propeller-induced noise and vibrations, which are thought to have a negative impact on marine life.
To remind, ERMA FIRST received the 2023 GREEN4SEA Sustainability Award for adopting an ESG strategy, focusing on a wide-ranging corporate social responsibility (CSR) policy.
