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Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has announced the joint development of an optimum trim system for vessels which is said to reduce fuel consumption.

A pilot test of the system using a 6,400-unit car carrier is said to have shown an increase of up to 4 percent in fuel efficiency compared to a conventionally equipped vessel.

The optimum trim system quantitatively assesses MOL captains' extensive practical knowledge of vessel running attitudes through tank testing and an actual ship test. This data is translated into graphs to make it easier for seafarers to use the system. Tank testing by Akishima Laboratories showed that appropriate trim adjustments can significantly reduce wave drag. These results were confirmed in practical tests using the car carrier.

The optimum trim system is a joint development project with Akishima Laboratories (Mitsui Zosen) Inc. It is one of the technologies MOL is promoting in its Sempaku ISHIN project to develop concepts for next-generation vessels.

The company says it will adopt the optimum trim system on additional types of ships combined with the optimal operational system in order to reduce CO2 emissions within its fleet.