Page 22 - 2024 - Q3 - Minerva in Focus

MINERVA IN FOCUS
LNG Carriers A look into Minerva’s Newbuildings

Within 2026, Minerva will
welcome two state-of-the-
art LNG vessels into its
fleet, each boasting a
Minerva’s capacity of 174,000 m3.
These vessels, currently
LNGC under construction at the
Samsung Heavy Industries
newbuildings: (SHI) shipyard, represent
cutting-edge innovations

Pioneering in maritime technology.

A key feature in the design of these LNG vessels is the
efficiency incorporation of the SAVER Air Lubrication System, a rev-
olutionary technology aimed at optimising fuel efficien-
cy and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The
and sustainability SAVER Air system reduces frictional drag on the hull by
creating an insulating air layer beneath the vessel, sig-
nificantly lowering the resistance between the hull and
seawater. According to SHI, this system can achieve a net
power saving ratio of approximately 7% when sailing at
by Michail Servos, a speed of 18 knots, making it a highly efficient solution
Energy and Environmental Manager, for long-distance maritime operations.
Minerva Marine Inc. The system's performance will be evaluated in practice
once the vessels are in service, ensuring the technology
delivers the expected fuel savings and emission reductions.
The SAVER Air system consists of multiple components,
including a control and monitoring system, two air com-
pressors, air supply lines, and 20 strategically placed air
injectors. The system is based on Air Layer Drag Reduction
(ALDR) technology, where air is injected beneath the hull
to form a mixture of air bubbles that eventually merge into
Minerva is positioning itself a continuous air layer. This reduces the wetted surface
area of the hull, minimising frictional drag and shifting the
as a leader in eco-friendly interaction from water-hull friction to air-hull friction.
Beyond energy savings, the system offers additional benefits
shipping, demonstrating its such as reduced noise, minimised vibration, and decreased
hull fouling, all of which contribute to lower maintenance
commitment to innovative, costs. As the shipping industry faces increasing environ-
sustainable solutions in the mental regulations, the adoption of technologies like SAV-
ER Air aligns with global sustainability efforts. With these
maritime industry advancements, Minerva is positioning itself as a leader in
eco-friendly shipping, demonstrating its commitment to
innovative, sustainable solutions in the maritime industry.

22 ISSUE 29 / Q3 2024