ClassNK endorses Seawing data as industry faces stricter wind-propulsion standards

The tension generating the ship’s traction force and system performance is appropriate.

ClassNK has confirmed the validity of the performance analysis evaluation for the automated kite system Seawing, developed by Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (“K” LINE) and its French subsidiary OCEANICWING S.A.S. (OCEANICWING).

In the assessment, ClassNK reviewed performance analysis evaluation documents based on actual data obtained from land-based testing using the “Seawing” system with a 300-square metre kite.

Through this, the firm confirmed that the verification processes for the tension generating the ship’s traction force and system performance are appropriate.

As standards for wind-assisted propulsion systems, ClassNK has been updating the “Guidelines for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems for Ships,” first issued in 2019.

In accordance with these guidelines, ClassNK also issued an Approval in Principle for the Seawing in 2020.