Sustainable Innovations in Spliethoff's new L-type vessels
The Spliethoff Group is proud to introduce its new series of eight L-type vessels, incorporating cutting-edge sustainable technologies to minimise environmental impact and enhance operational efficiency. The features outlined in this article reflect a significant step in our commitment to innovation and sustainability in maritime transport.
Ship hull form optimisation
In collaboration with Marin in the Netherlands, we have conducted an extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) optimisation program for the hull form of the L-type vessels. This program has resulted in a highly efficient hull design that significantly reduces fuel consumption. The optimisation process considered various operating profiles and statistical evaluations of multiyear environmental conditions on planned sailing routes, ensuring the hull form is tailored for maximum efficiency.
LNG-powered
The L-type vessels are purpose-built to operate on LNG (methane), with the flexibility to utilize conventional fossil LNG or renewable LNG (bio or synthetic). This versatility allows the vessels to progress along the full decarbonisation pathway, achieving significant emission reductions.
To support operations on LNG across the vessels’ intended trade routes, each ship is equipped with a 2,500 m³ LNG storage tank. This capacity enhances operational flexibility by enabling extended range and strategic bunkering between ports in the United States and the Baltic region.
The LNG fuel supply system is designed to maximise energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact by utilising Boil-Off Gas (BOG) instead of venting it into the atmosphere. Rather than releasing this byproduct – which would contribute to emissions – our system repurposes BOG as a valuable fuel source. This allows not only the auxiliary engines and thermal oil boiler to operate on BOG but also enables the main engine to utilise it. By integrating BOG into multiple engine systems, our approach significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions providing a cleaner and more sustainable energy solution, even during port stays where shore power is unavailable.
When operating on LNG, the vessels are expected to reduce CO₂e emissions per unit of transport work by approximately 60%. This reduction can be further enhanced by transitioning to renewable LNG. We are confident that our investment in LNG-powered vessels represents a significant step toward meeting our decarbonisation objectives, while maintaining operational flexibility and efficiency across our global trade routes.
Propulsion line
The propulsion system features a slow-speed two-stroke high-pressure engine, specifically designed to minimise methane slip to near-zero levels.
The engine is derated to its optimum fuel operating point and features a Power Take Off (PTO) variable frequency drive system, allowing for variable/optimum engine speed operation in all seagoing conditions.
L-type vessels feature a large-diameter, slow-turning Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP) with blade geometries specifically optimised for the vessel’s wake field. Rather than being tailored for a single trial condition, the propeller is designed for peak performance across the entire operational profile and draught range. To further enhance propulsion efficiency, hull line optimizations have been carried out to create an ideal propeller wake field. Additionally, the integration of a rudder bulb, a tailored hub cap fairing cone, and a twisted leading-edge rudder helps reduce underwater radiated noise while mitigating the risk of propeller cavitation, a major source of underwater noise.
Advanced coating technologies
The hull coating system for the L-type vessels has been selected based on its efficiency in reducing fuel consumption, resistance to marine growth, and low maintenance requirements. This choice ensures the underwater hull surface remains in optimal condition, contributing to overall fuel efficiency.
Shaft generator/PTO hybrid power system
The shaft generator is prepared for future hybrid propulsion, enabling power peak shaving and allowing the main engine to operate at optimal conditions even in changing environmental conditions.
Heat recovery systems
Extensive heat recovery systems capture thermal energy from exhaust gases and cooling water from both the main and auxiliary engines. This recovered heat is utilised for almost all heating services throughout the vessel, further enhancing energy efficiency.
Shore power connection
To enable emission-free operations in port in the future, L-type vessels are equipped with shore power connection stations designed for future integration with an external unit. However, this unit has not yet been incorporated into the design, as harbour infrastructure, voltage specifications, and connection methods have not been fully crystallised or standardised. Once these factors are established, the unit will support various voltages and plug connections, ensuring a total power supply of approximately 1,200 kW, sufficient for all port loading operations.
Side loaders with hybrid power
The side loaders on the L-type vessels are equipped with electric motors and an energy storage system. When the side loaders on L-type vessels are lowered, the regenerative power generated is stored in a battery. This stored energy is then utilised when the side loaders are raised, reducing the demand for auxiliary power and enhancing overall efficiency.
Aerodynamic accommodation design
The accommodation and LNG tank are integrated into a superstructure positioned at the extreme foreship serving as a protective barrier for all deck cargo, while its aerodynamic shape reduces air resistance for both the vessel and its exposed deck cargo, enhancing operational efficiency.
These innovative features of the L-type vessels underscore Spliethoff's dedication to sustainability and operational excellence. By integrating advanced technologies and optimising every aspect of vessel design, we are setting new standards for environmentally responsible maritime transport.