If the industry is to manage handling the rising fuel cost levels and contribute for a more eco-friendly world, accelerating innovative technology development in the field of reducing vessel CO2 emissions is integral. This can come to fruition via the employment of various CO2 abatement-related technologies like hybrid contra-rotating mechanism-based propulsion systems, plants using liquefied natural gas, low-friction coatings and solar power. The current video focuses on the proprietary Mitsubishi Air-Lubrication System (MALS), which contributes to the reducing of frictional resistance that occurs between the hull of the vessel and seawater via the use of air bubbles along the vessel’s bottom.
Video: DiscoverMHI
MALS is the first case involving the use of an air-blower air-lubrication system on ocean-going vessels in the world. It was integrated aboard two module carriers back in 2010 and has reportedly achieved a CO2 emission reduction level of 13%. Using the conclusions derived from our study regarding the practical engineering, technical challenges and principal theory surrounding the MALS in terms of commercial viability as well as efficiency, the technology in question has managed to further expand its use and is now being integrated aboard other types of vessels like ferries, bulk carriers, cruisers etc.