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ClassNK grants AIP for wind-powered kite systemClassNK grants AIP for wind-powered kite system

Japan’s ClassNK has granted an Approval in Principle (AIP) to Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha (K Line) and France’s Airseas for their automated kite system Seawing.

Lee Hong Liang, Asia Correspondent

August 20, 2020

1 Min Read
aip
K Line vice president executive officer Atsuo Asano (right) with ClassNK senior executive vice president Toshiyuki ShigemiPhoto: ClassNK

Seawing is a kite system which assists vessel propulsion by harnessing wind power through its dynamic flight.

A simple switch launches or recovers the kite which unfolds, operates and refolds autonomously. The Seawing system collects and analyses meteorological and oceanic data in real-time, then adapts its flight to this information in order to optimize its performance as well as to ensure maximum safety.

The AIP is based on ClassNK’s Guidelines for Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems for Ships, released in September 2019 in order to contribute to the safe integrity and design of the technology for ships to install.

Upon receiving the application from K Line and Airseas, ClassNK reviewed the basic design of the kite system in line with relevant international conventions, ClassNK rules, and the guidelines.

“ClassNK will continue to support the smooth implementation of new technologies through its role as a third-party certification body,” ClassNK stated.

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About the Author

Lee Hong Liang

Asia Correspondent

Singapore-based Lee Hong Liang provides a significant boost to daily coverage of the Asian shipping markets, as well as bringing with him an in-depth specialist knowledge of the bunkering markets.

Throughout Hong Liang’s 14-year career as a maritime journalist, he has reported ‘live’ news from conferences, conducted one-on-one interviews with top officials, and had the ability to write hard news and featured stories.

 

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