MOL developed an optimum trim system for vessels, along with Akishima Laboratories. A pilot test of the system, using a 6,400-unit car carrier, showed an increase of up to 4% in fuel efficiency compared to a conventionally equipped vessel, which in turn contributes to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.

The optimum trim system quantitatively assesses MOL captains’ practical knowledge of vessel running attitudes through tank testing and actual ship test. This data is translated into graphs that make it easy for seafarers to use the system. Tank testing by Akishima Laboratories showed that appropriate trim adjustments can significantly reduce wave drag, and these results were confirmed in practical tests using the car carrier (see figure).

Next-Generation Vessels

The optimum trim system is one of the elemental technologies MOL is promoting in its Sempaku ISHIN project to develop concepts for next-generation vessels. The company will adopt the optimum trim system on additional types of ships in a proactive approach combined with the optimal operational system together to reducing CO2 emissions on a fleet-wide basis.

Figure: “Trim by bow” means that the bow draft is deeper than the aft draft, while “trim by aft” means the opposite.