NSU and Vale to install rotor sails on a bulk carrier

Japanese shipping company NS United Kaiun Kaisha (NSU) has partnered with Brazilian mining firm Vale to install five wind-assisted propulsion units on its bulk carrier, NSU Tubarao.

PHOTO: Illustration of bulk carrier NSU Tubarao fitted with rotor sails. NSU

Each unit features a 35-meter-high rotor sail that generates thrust by creating a pressure difference around a rotating cylindrical sail mounted on the deck.

These rotor sails will be provided by Anemoi Marine, a London-based rotor sails manufacturer. The installation is planned for September 2025.

WAPS gaining momentum

Wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS) are becoming increasingly popular among shipowners seeking to enhance vessel performance and lower fuel consumption.

This month, Dutch shipping company Antony Veder retrofitted its gas carrier with a WAPS, while Jumbo Maritime, a maritime transport firm, installed two sails on a heavy lift vessel (HLV).

By Tuhin Roy

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