For Designers

Norsepower project services cover all phases from the case study preparation to the Rotor Sail Solution delivery. Each project is planned according to our client’s needs and preferences.

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If you are a naval architect, an engineer who is responsible for the design, construction, and/or repair of ships, or are looking for more detailed technical information on the Rotor Sail Technology then this section is for you   We start our process with familiarization of your fleet, the sailing schedule, time at sea ratio, geographical operation areas in terms of location, wind direction, and speed.   Based on our knowledge and the wind data, we can provide our recommendations for the potential vessel and route selection.   We will carry out a case study for the selected vessel with Rotor Sail(s) installed and provide an estimation for the fuel savings, emission reduction, and the payback time.

The Norsepower Rotor Sail Solution is the first commercially available auxiliary wind propulsion solution with a proven track record of successful operation since 2014. The key advantages of the Norsepower Rotor Sail Solution are:  

  • Fuel costs can be reduced typically by 5% to 20% without lowering the operating speed of the vessel
  • Rotor Sail operation is highly automated, and it can be controlled by the crew from the bridge
  • The solution has been tested in co-operation with leading classification societies to ensure that it is robust, durable and safe to use
  • Rotor sails can be installed in new vessels or they can be refitted to an existing ship

Norsepower Rotor Sail

Norsepower’s Rotor Sail Solution harnesses wind to maximise ship fuel efficiency.   When wind conditions are favourable, the Rotor Sails allow the main engines to be throttled back, saving fuel and reducing emissions while providing the power needed to maintain speed and voyage time. A variable electric drive system, which is powered by the ship's low voltage network, is used for rotating the Rotor Sail.   The Norsepower Rotor Sail technology is around ten times more efficient than a conventional sail, because more lift is produced with a much smaller sail area. Due to its simplicity, it requires no reefing or crew attention when in operation. It is "push-button wind propulsion" from the bridge.  

Briefly, the optimal number, size, and locations of Norsepower Rotor Sails are based on the following vessel-specific factors:

  • Available deck space providing sufficient clearance from structures obstructing wind flow to the Rotor Sail
  • Aerodynamic properties of the vessel i.e. location of superstructures, cranes, etc. and potential interference between the rotors
  • Steel structures on and below the deck for supporting and installation of the Rotor Sail foundations
  • Issues such as vessel stability, cargo operations, visibility from bridge, radar- and navigation light requirements are to be checked for each case
  • Safety requirements are strictly followed to ensure safe operations and working environment

Installation of Rotor Sails

Foundations are used to mount Rotor Sails to the ship´s deck. The foundation transfers the loads produced by a Rotor Sail to the ship´s hull. Manufacturing of the foundation and the actual installation onboard is under the shipowner’s/shipyard’s responsibility. Technical specification for the typical foundation is provided by Norsepower.   Installation of the foundation is done during a normal dry-docking. Steel structure modifications and installation can be done in 7-14 days. If necessary, a part of the works can also be conducted onboard during sailing.   Automation system components (sensors, control-, and monitoring panels) as well as the power and automation system cabling, are most convenient to install while the ship is at the maintenance dock. If the maintenance docking period is short, a part of this work can also be done while the ship is in operation.   The installation of the Rotor Sail is a rather fast operation. It can usually be done during a normal port call. Typical installation time is 6-12h per Rotor Sail. In the installation phase, the Rotor Sail is lifted by crane to the foundation and all mechanical and cabling connections are well secured.