Vale’s first ore carrier equipped with
air lubrication system is scheduled to arrive in Brazilian waters in August.
The world’s second-largest shipper of
iron ore is testing a technique supplied by the English manufacturer
Silverstream in which compressors send air to devices under vessels, forming a
carpet of bubbles that reduces friction between the hull and the water.
The company expects to reduce its
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from navigation.
The technology, known as air lubrication,
was installed in the Sea Victoria, a Guaibamax with a capacity of 325 thousand
tonnes.
Vale’s navigation team estimates that, if
the test is successful, the technology could be replicated on the remainder of
the contracted fleet dedicated to transporting the company’s ore.
“Conservative estimates point to a fuel
reduction of around 5 to 8%, with a potential reduction of 4.4% in annual
emissions from Vale´s maritime transport of iron ore”, explained Vale technical
manager of Navigation, Rodrigo Bermelho.
The miner is stepping up environmental,
social and governance efforts after recent tailings dam disasters.
Recently, Vale announced the launch of
the world’s first ore carrier equipped with rotor sails, scheduled to arrive in
Brazil at the end of the month. Like air lubrication, the new technology was
installed on a Guaibamax.
MINING.COM