DNV has issued a Type Approval Design Certificate (TADC) to CSSC Shanghai Marine Energy Saving Technology Co., Ltd. (CMES-Tech) for its pioneering 5m × 35m Tilting Type Wind Assisted Rotor System.
This development marks the first certification of a domestically developed rotor sail system in China under DNV's Wind Assisted Propulsion System (WAPS) rules (ST-0511). With this approval, the system is ready for installation on DNV-classed commercial vessels, signifying a significant achievement for China's green shipping technology sector.
Rising demand for cost-effective solutions
Amidst increasing concerns over fuel costs and stricter emissions regulations, the global shipping industry is witnessing a growing interest in reliable wind-assisted propulsion systems. In recent years, numerous WAPS solutions have been certified by DNV, featuring varied designs such as fixed, tiltable rotor, wingsail, and suction sail systems from international providers.
The innovative tiltable rotor system by CMES-Tech includes a retractable and adjustable mechanism. This design allows the rotor to accommodate varying draft and clearance needs and retract during cargo handling to avoid interfering with deck/hatch operations or port infrastructure.
Furthermore, the system incorporates intelligent sensing and automatic controls to optimise wind propulsion by adapting to real-time wind conditions, enhancing efficiency while ensuring safety.
Validation by DNV experts
The review confirmed that CMES-Tech's design aligns with the requirements of DNV's WAPS technical standard
Dr. Huang Guofu, General Manager of CMES-Tech, remarked on the achievement: "Receiving the DNV TADC is a landmark for China’s green-shipping industry and a strong validation of our design’s maturity, structural integrity and operational practicality. It demonstrates that our 5 m × 35 m tilting rotor design meets the highest classification and validates our commitment to driving maritime efficiency. We look forward to working with DNV as we continue to innovate and deliver solutions that can deliver economic and environmental value to shipowners worldwide."
During the TADC process, DNV's experts meticulously reviewed the mechanical, structural, and electrical design documentation, evaluating the system's adequacy for maritime application under practical operational and environmental conditions. The review confirmed that CMES-Tech's design aligns with the requirements of DNV's WAPS technical standard (ST-0511).
Advancing new energy technologies
Mr. Chen Keng, DNV Vice President and Area Manager China South, commented: "With increasing demand for energy-efficient and emission-reduction solutions, WAPS technologies offer immediate, tangible benefits to shipowners. The awarding of this TADC to CMES-Tech means we add another option to the growing portfolio of WAPS systems that have been assessed to the industry’s pioneering rule set, building further confidence in their readiness for real-world use. We congratulate CMES-Tech on this achievement, which underscores our strong collaboration on enabling the broader deployment of new energy-enhancing technologies."
The rotor sail prototype successfully passed a stringent 120% overload structural test, illustrating its resilience under extreme conditions. Moving forward, CMES-Tech plans to detail system installation and conduct sea trials to assess the new system's operational performance.
