Norsepower gets DNV nod for ‘explosion-proof’ rotor sail design

Classification society DNV has awarded an approval certificate to Finnish cleantech company Norsepower for the explosion-proof version of its rotor sails.

PHOTO: Representatives from DNV and Norsepower. Norsepower

A rotor sail is a modernised form of Flettner rotor based on the Magnus effect, which creates air pressure to cause spinning.

The new version of rotor sail has met all safety and performance standards required for installation in hazardous zones on vessels carrying explosive liquids or gases, Norsepower said.

Under favourable wind conditions, the rotor sail will enable the vessel's main engine to throttle back and consume less fuel while providing enough power to maintain speed.

The new design offers protection to “critical components” inside the rotor sail, including the power unit and electrical cabinets, the company said.

The DNV certification marks the “first-ever approval for a Wind Assisted Propulsion System (WAPS) to be used in hazardous zones onboard vessels,” Norsepower claimed.

By Aparupa Mazumder

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