Siport21 has utilized digital twins and advanced simulators to analyze the maneuverability of an LNG vessel with modern sails as auxiliary propulsion. The Siport21 team has evaluated the impact of these sails under real operating conditions through a case study based on the Traiano Knutsen vessel – an LNG transport vessel recognized for its efficient design and cargo capacity – owned by Knutsen OAS Shipping and time-chartered by a company in the Enel group, Endesa. This vessel model was integrated with Bound4Blue’s eSAIL® sails, which employ a thick aerodynamic profile and an intelligent suction system.
The project, which required simulations at the Port of Huelva, evaluates the impact of increased sail area on the vessel’s maneuverability and visibility during port maneuvers under different weather conditions. In the analyzed case, it was observed that the sail area facilitates normal navigation and port maneuvering operations. It also emphasizes the importance of captains and pilots adapting to these new configurations to enhance their performance.
An evaluation was also carried out on the impact that the implementation of this system would have on a vessel similar to the Traiano Knutsen in terms of emission reduction, using the ECOBUQ-NEOBUQ tool developed by the consortium formed by Siport21, GASNAM-Neutral Transport, and Cotenaval. The results estimated a 10% fuel savings compared to the original vessel without modifications.
The study results, presented at the 64th Naval Engineering Congress, demonstrate how these technologies allow for the design of strategies that balance compliance with environmental regulations with operational safety and efficiency while facilitating the transition to more sustainable navigation. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of using digital twins and advanced simulators not only as technical tools but also as means to support crew and pilot training, ensuring safe and efficient port maneuvers.
