Manta Marine Technologies Partners with Chemship to Optimize Vessel Propulsion Using FuelOpt
Manta Marine Technologies will implement its automated propulsion optimization system, FuelOpt, on nine vessels operated by Chemship, following a successful trial on the Chemical Challenger. The contract also includes Manta’s Fleet Analytics tool for performance monitoring and reporting.
The retrofit will commence with two Japanese-built multigrade vessels before the end of 2025, while the remaining tankers are set for 2026. FuelOpt adapts a vessel’s propulsion in real-time to meet operational targets like speed and fuel consumption limits, ensuring efficient power output. It is compatible with both conventional and alternative fuels, including hybrid propulsion systems.
Source: Manta Marine Technologies
Richard Engelhart Bjercke, Manta’s chief commercial officer, expressed pride in partnering with Chemship, a leader in sustainable chemical transportation. He highlighted the importance of propulsion control in achieving net-zero targets using FuelOpt and Fleet Analytics, which enhances performance through a blend of human expertise and automated decision-making.
When combined with Wind Assisted Propulsion systems, FuelOpt can translate wind energy into fuel savings through automated adjustments. Fleet Analytics gathers high-frequency data for vessel performance analysis and benchmarking across individual ships or entire fleets. This cloud-based tool generates timeline-based reports in line with EU and IMO standards, integrating with systems like FuelOpt to aid in operational decisions and reduce administrative tasks.
Chemship specializes in stainless steel chemical tankers capable of carrying various liquid bulk cargoes, including specialized chemicals and clean petroleum products. Michiel Marelis, Chemship‘s operations director, remarked on the shift from manual to digital consumption data, allowing for precise measurement of efficiency in sustainable investments.
In February 2024, Chemship installed Econowind’s VentoFoils, four 16-meter tall wind sails, on the Chemical Challenger to enhance wind-assisted propulsion.
