
LR-Shipdesign AG (LRSD), a Swiss provider of ship hull design technology, recently decided to install its hull bottom design technology on a 15,000 TEU container vessel. By optimizing the propeller and rudder design to match the ship's aft bottom design, it reduces fuel consumption and improves energy efficiency to meet even future IMO (International Maritime Organization) environmental regulations, including the CII (fuel efficiency rating system).
LRSD's AFT OPT stern design technology uses a unique hull bottom shape that reduces hull resistance and improves wake flow to generate water flow towards the propeller and generate more powerful thrust. In addition to reducing the speed of the main engine without increasing the load on the crankshaft, the technology reduces vibration and noise generation and reduces hull motion caused by wind and waves.

The benefits of this innovative technology can be seen already in the design stage, significantly reducing OPEX (operating costs) and enabling compliance with long-term environmental regulations. LRSD reports that if the technology is introduced to sister vessels, the investment costs for the second and subsequent ships will be recouped in less than one year due to the reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
