Alfa Laval buys stake in air lubrication developer
The general cargo vessel M/V Tharsis with FluidicAL technology onboard (Source: Alfa Laval)
Alfa Laval has acquired a minority stake in Rotterdam-based technology firm, Marine Performance Systems BV, which has developed a patented air lubrication technology called FluidicAL. Resulting fuel savings could reach 8-12% at a ship’s normal service speed, according to the companies.
The FluidicAL technology has already been tested at full scale through an installation on the general cargo ship, MV Tharsis. A 60% reduction in resistance over the flat area of the hull was recorded over 25 separate tests runs in both loaded and ballast conditions.
Founder of the Rotterdam company, Frode Lundsteen Hansen, who set up the business in 2018, commented: “The use of fluidics creates a larger air layer of superior quality. Our FluidicAL technology enables truly effective air lubrication, with immediate environmental benefits and substantial savings for shipowners. Alfa Lava shares our belief that this technology will facilitate the transition to green shipping.”
Alfa Laval Marine Division president, Sameer Kalra, said: “The investment brings Alfa Laval full circle, since air lubrication technology for marine vessels was first pursued and patented by our founder, Gustav de Laval, in 1883. The technology did not result in any product in his time, but our founder’s vision has new importance today. Air lubrication will smooth the marine industry’s path to a sustainable future.”
