The below is an edited copy of AlfaLaval’s press release, published June 7, 2023.
Alfa Laval OceanGlide is the name of Alfa Laval’s newly acquired air lubrication system, which is based on patented fluidic technology. This technology is the latest addition to Alfa Laval’s sustainable portfolio, aimed at supporting shipowners in addressing fuel and emission challenges.
OceanGlide integrates fluid technology into air lubrication to optimize energy savings. This patented and class-approved system uses fluidic oscillators to generate an even layer of micro-air bubbles across the vessel's flat bottom, reducing friction and drag. By reducing the vessel's drag, the OceanGlide system offers a proven method of reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
“We are pleased that Odfjell has chosen OceanGlide to improve the vessel's energy efficiency” - Anders Lindmark, Business Unit President, Heat & Gas Systems, Alfa Laval
Lindmark continues: "We strive to develop and bring innovative and environmentally friendly technologies, such as OceanGlide, to our customers that support them in meeting their decarbonisation goals and enable them to sail efficiently."
Odfjell has installed more than 130 energy-saving devices on our vessels since 2014. In 1Q 2023, we reported a historically low carbon intensity – more than 50% below the IMO baseline for our fleet. Our decarbonization efforts do not stop with this achievement – now is the time to start deploying more improved technologies.
“We believe that liquid air lubrication technology is a natural next step for us, and we look forward to using the OceanGlide system to further reduce the carbon intensity.”
- Erik Hjortland,
VP Technology, Odfjell
Utilizing the power of air lubrication based on fluid technology
One of the most important advantages of Alfa Laval OceanGlide is the ability to regulate power consumption through oscillation bands.
OceanGlide uses fluidic technology to create streamlined sections on the vessel's flat bottom, each with its own fluidic band that generates bubbles. The independent management of each belt provides a more controlled and streamlined flow of air bubbles to ensure optimum efficiency, maximum coverage and reduced compressor output.
"The unique configuration of bands in sections for a regulated flow of air bubbles is a characteristic of the OceanGlide system. This setup enables precise control and optimization of power consumption, and we look forward to documenting the energy-saving effect on our chemical tankers," says Hjortland.
The OceanGlide fluidic air lubrication system's high efficiency in the production of bubbles not only ensures an efficient air layer with fewer compressors, but also gives the added advantage that you can easily place them anywhere on board.
The system requires no structural modifications or recertification of vessels, making it ideal for retrofits as well as new builds. The fluidic belts, designed with a low profile and no moving parts, can be easily configured below the ship in any shipyard.
Video by Marine Performance Systems:
Enables compliance with environmental regulations
Air lubrication technology is recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as an "Innovative Energy Efficiency Technology" to reduce carbon emissions. The technology supports compliance with the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and carbon intensity reduction to meet IMO's Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) requirements. In addition to this, the innovative liquid air lubrication technology minimizes CO2 emissions and thus helps to limit the CO2 tax.
Click here to see why Odfjell focus on energy efficiency in the decarbonization work: Presentation by VP Technology Erik Hjortland.
