SHAPE up or ship out

Whichever option is preferred, it is clear that compliance will involve a significant investment or additional expense. Unsurprisingly shipowners and operators are keen to keep their operating costs low and achieve maximum efficiency.

Efficiency is key

Shipping efficiency can be enhanced in different ways and at Hempel, the worldwide coating manufacturer, many years of research and development have been dedicated to the subject. SHAPE (Systems for Hull and Propeller Efficiency), launched last year, is a service that brings performance monitoring and analysis to shipowners and operators worldwide.

Founded on the ISO 19030 framework, SHAPE offers outstanding hull and propeller efficiency through high quality data gathering, expert analysis, conclusive advice and data driven solutions to deliver a solid return on investment.

A simple process

It is well known that fouling and mechanical damage to the hull can increase the engine power that a vessel utilises by up to 20 per cent. Hempel’s SHAPE process can monitor the long-term trends via in-service key performance indicators.

SHAPE is a structured process which can be applied to every vessel. As a first step, individual speed power reference curves are established based on the vessel’s operating patterns and its location. Once established, the relevant data is collected and reviewed to clean and retain key information. This means removing any data from extreme operating conditions and accounting for any environmental factors. This allows Hempel’s analysts to calculate the vessels precise speed loss calculations and to establish four KPIs. The KPIs relate to all stages of the vessel’s operational life, its dry-docking performance, in-service performance, the maintenance triggers and the maintenance effects on vessel speed. The resulting detailed data can then be used to make changes that deliver fuel efficiency, tailored to each vessel’s specific needs.

By using this transparent system, in combination with Hempel’s hull coatings, ship operators can now make data driven decisions. This will allow them to operate more efficiently and competitively irrespective of vessel type, age and size to maximise their vessel’s profitability regardless of its operating patterns.

SHAPE at a glance:

http://www.shape.hempel.com