RS Rotor Sail

Ship wind turbine (also known as ship wind assist system or wind enhancement device) is an energy-saving device that uses aerodynamic principles to enhance wind power through the structure of the wind turbine to improve the efficiency of ship propulsion. Windpipe technology is one of the energy-saving measures for the shipping industry to utilize wind energy. It improves propulsion efficiency or reduces fuel consumption by optimizing the shape of ships or utilizing wind pipe structures.

Energy saving 5-10% additional thrust, reducing the burden on the host and lowering maintenance costs

working principle

Ship windshields utilize the principles of aerodynamics to enhance the effect of wind or airflow on ship propulsion. The main mechanisms can be divided into the following forms:

1. Pneumatic propulsion assistance

-Wind tube design: The wind tube device installed on the hull can guide natural wind into the tube, generating lift similar to that on an airplane wing and increasing the propulsion force of the ship. This design is based on Bernoulli's principle, where when wind passes through a wind duct, the difference in airflow velocity between the inside and outside of the duct creates thrust in a certain direction of the ship, thereby assisting in its propulsion.

2. Increase the utilization rate of wind

-The amplification effect of the wind duct: The wind duct is similar to an air acceleration device, which can concentrate and accelerate natural wind or airflow passing through the hull, using a greater pressure difference to provide additional propulsion for the ship. Especially in low wind speeds, the wind duct can significantly amplify the effect of wind force.

3. Optimize air resistance

-Reducing drag: Another function of the wind duct is to reduce wind resistance by changing the aerodynamic shape of the vessel without increasing thrust. This is particularly advantageous when wind resistance significantly affects the efficiency of ship operation. Windtubes can reduce turbulence and unnecessary resistance by optimizing the airflow path, making ship travel smoother.

Energy saving effect

1. Reduce fuel consumption

-Energy saving range: According to the design and application of the ship's wind duct, the wind duct auxiliary system can help reduce fuel consumption by 5% -10%. This energy-saving effect is more significant under strong downwind or crosswind conditions, as the propulsion effect of the air duct can greatly reduce the burden on the main engine.

2. Reduce carbon emissions

-Emission reduction effect: The direct result of reducing fuel consumption is a significant decrease in carbon dioxide (CO ₂) and other greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Impact on speed

-Speed maintenance: The wind duct system can help the ship maintain or increase its speed under certain wind conditions, especially under fuel limitations. This has significant commercial value for cargo ships that need to maintain schedules for long-term navigation.

4. Effects under different wind conditions

-When the tailwind is strong, the air duct system can significantly increase propulsion and save fuel for the main engine.

-When facing the wind: Under headwind conditions, the air duct mainly plays a role in reducing air resistance. Although the energy-saving effect is not as significant as when facing the wind, it can still reduce resistance and lower the load on the main engine.

Windpipe technology is a mature energy-saving solution suitable for use in the modern shipping industry, especially in the context of high fuel prices and increasingly strict environmental requirements, which can effectively reduce costs and improve the economy and environmental friendliness of ships.