Netherlands-based eConowind, developer of the wind-assist product VentiFoil (see Pacific Maritime Magazine, Feb 2020) has been contracted to install two of its devices on a cargo vessel owned by Holland’s Boomsma Shipping BV. The twin units have been integrated into a specially designed flatrack container that can be carried on deck and from which the folding VentiFoils can be deployed.
VentiFoils are ridged aspirated non-rotating wing profiles that create thrust by means of the principle of boundary-layer-suction. Because of the additional thrust they generate the thrust of the ship’s propeller can be reduced to maintain the same speed while saving fuel. The project is being supported by the Interreg North Sea Europe program, part of the European Regional Development Fund.
