Damen Shipyards Group has concluded a retrofit project for four bulk carriers for BAM Shipping, in collaboration with partners including Atal Solutions.
The primary objectives of the retrofit included minimising water resistance, optimising power usage, improving propulsion systems, reducing emissions, and enhancing lubrication systems.
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This initiative introduced a range of technologies aimed at enhancing efficiency, which is projected to reduce fuel consumption and emissions from the vessels.
The modifications are projected to extend the operational lifespan of the vessels by approximately 12 years.
Systems including the Damen Air Cavity System (DACS) marine lubrication system, the Damen Triton IoT solution, low friction anti-fouling paint, and variable frequency drives were installed.
Shore power connectivity, LED lighting, a wake equalising pre- and post-swirl duct, carbon capture systems, and DEX QM lubrication technology were also added.
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By GlobalDataThe project scope was expanded to include additional efficiency solutions, such as fuel and oil lubricant additives, a Hempel propeller coating, and nano EFX, a spray solution that ionises humidity in the engine’s air intake to optimise fuel combustion and reduce emissions.
The project partners estimated that these measures would lead to a 20-25% reduction in fuel consumption and a 90% decrease in emissions.
Atal Solutions facilitated the funding for the project, amounting to $123.7m, which included a supplier’s credit of $105.2m.
This arrangement required the vessel owners to contribute only 15% equity, with a repayment period of 12 years at competitive interest rates.
Atal Solutions CEO/founder Edwin Sieswerda said: “We are very pleased with the preliminary results of this project, and are looking forward to the class verification in the coming weeks.”
Verification of the vessels by classification society RINA is scheduled for the coming weeks, which will confirm the total fuel savings achieved.
Preliminary results from two of the vessels, which have already commenced operations following the initial retrofit, indicate that they are on track to meet their efficiency targets, according to the company.
The anticipated fuel savings are expected to significantly lower the operational expenditure of the vessels, stated Damen.
This retrofit project ensures that the bulk carriers comply with recent regulations, including the Carbon Intensity Indicator and the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index.
Damen business development manager Rutger van Dam said: “This has been a very exciting project. What we have done here, with the integration of so many different solutions to achieve a combined result, is unprecedented.”
In December 2024, Damen Shipyards Group delivered six RSD Tugs 2513 to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, representing an advancement in sustainability.
