In 2017, Conoship initiated developing the eConowind-unit, which is used to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
The unit has two foldable VentiFoils that create superior thrust. Two, four or six units can be fitted on a vessel. When using two VentiFoils on a vessel with 5000 t of cargo, it is expected that average fuel savings and reduction of emissions will be between 10 to 20%.
Development of the VentiFoils is now carried out by eConowind, a Netherlands based company, related to HCP in Amerongen and Conoship International in Groningen. eConowind is fully dedicated to developing, building and testing the wind-assisted propulsion eConowind-unit.
Sea Trials
After finishing land-testing, two full-size VentiFoils left for a maiden voyage on the North and Baltic Sea on 19 November on board of MV Lady Christina of WijnneBarends, Delfzijl. This 5500 DWT High Cubic vessel was designed by Conoship.
The units were integrated into a 40 ft container that is mounted on the hatchcovers of the vessel. From the container two foldable VentiFoils were deployed: ridged "aspirated wing-profiles" acting as sails.
Autonomous unfolding VentiFoils automatically set in the most optimal position.
While the VentiFoils were now still controlled manually, the company is now working on a management system which will automatically deploy and close the VentiFoils as well as adjust them to the direction of the wind for maximum thrust.
Future Designs
Conoship has launched and is involved in several research projects for alternative fuels. In the next years, Conoship will present designs for a fleet that will be able to fulfil any foreseeable future demands, up to zero-emission and may include the VentiFoils.
Picture: Two VentiFoils were tested on board Wijnne Barends' Lady Christina.
