KCC begins fleet conversion to Silverstream air lubrication

Newly equipped with the Silverstream System, MV Ballard has also become one of the first vessels within the dry bulk/tanker space to adopt the technology.

“The implementation of these efficiency improvements illustrates our commitment to take a front-runner position in delivering cost-effective decarbonisation to our customers,” said Engebret Dahm is CEO at KCC.

”We remain steadfast in our journey to implement a wide range of energy and operational efficiency technologies on our current fleet while we, in addition, prepare for the later utilisation of zero-emission fuels on our newbuilds.” 

Energy efficiency

MV Ballard is the youngest vessel in KCC’s CABU fleet, which has undergone completed dry dock and subsequent sea trials with a wave of new energy efficiency measures in place.

The Silverstream System utilises a series of air release units (ARUs) located along the flat bottom of the vessel. Oil-free compressors generate pressurised air that is sent through the ARUs, creating a uniform layer of microbubbles that traverses the hull, thereby reducing the friction between the hull and water.

This reduction leads to a decrease in net fuel consumption and the subsequent CO2 emissions.

Other efficiency measures installed include a WE Tech shaft generator which converts rotational energy from the propeller shaft into electric power to supply the Silverstream system and other on-board systems. This generates electricity more efficiently from main engine, instead of the less efficient auxiliary engines.

It’s also had a Becker Mewis Duct installed which is a custom-designed hull appendage that improves propeller inflow hydrodynamics.

The vessel now also benefits from a Kongsberg Ship Performance System which provides real-time, high-frequency sensor data to onshore locations and a Starlink internet system to facilitate digital collaboration and data exchange between the ship and shore.

Following the sea trials, Ballard has returned to service with performance data of the new installations continuously monitored. Should all technologies deliver in line with KCC’s expectations, an energy efficiency improvement of around 15% is anticipated aboard the vessel.

Following MV Ballard, CLEANBU MV Baru is scheduled for a Silverstream System retrofit in November 2023.