Operating Conditions News

Accelleron announced the commercial launch of the ACCX300-L, its low-speed turbocharger for two-stroke marine engines, designed to help shipowners adapt to evolving operating profiles, fuels, and emissions requirements. Combining a new service‑friendly cartridge concept, a simplified platform architecture, and integrated digital capability, the ACCX300‑L decouples turbocharger maintenance from drydock schedules while delivering long‑term efficiency, flexibility, and uptime across…

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has selected six partners under its Call for Proposals (CFP) to advance and scale up in-water hull inspection and cleaning solutions in the Port of Singapore, in support of more efficient and lower-emission shipping.The CFP received 19 proposals from 36 companies across nine countries.The six selected partners – Alicia Bots, C-Leanship, Neptune Robotics, Oceanis Robotics, RINA and SEAHI Robotics – will receive close to USD$2.91…

Lloyd’s Register (LR) has tested Orca AI's AI-powered navigation system during a live vessel trial.The assessment focused on how AI-based computer vision can support human decision-making in real operating conditions, particularly in complex navigation scenarios such as congested waters and reduced visibility.The trial was conducted on a feeder containership during a five-day voyage through some of the Mediterranean’s busiest shipping lanes, from the port of Gioia Tauro in Italy to Marsaxlokk, Malta.

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, is deepening its collaboration with Microsoft to help make it easier for industrial companies to modernize their operations, break free from proprietary legacy systems and deploy AI-powered automation at scale.A Collaboration Built to End Legacy DragThe Schneider Electric collaboration with Microsoft combines Schneider Electric’s role as a global energy technology partner and pioneer of open, software‑defined automation with Microsoft Azure cloud, AI, and edge infrastructure.

For centuries, shipowners have fought a persistent enemy beneath the waterline: biofouling. Barnacles, algae, slime and other marine organisms attach themselves to hull surfaces, increasing hydrodynamic drag and reducing vessel efficiency. Traditionally, the fight against fouling relied on antifouling coatings, diver cleaning teams, and periodic drydock maintenance. But in the last decade, a new class of underwater robotics has begun to change that equation.Robotic hull-cleaning systems…

Under the agreement, Steerprop will be able to order tailored simulator training from Aboa Mare for its customers. The training programs are designed to support the safe and efficient operation of vessels fitted with Steerprop propulsion equipment across a range of operating conditions and vessel types.The services consist of simulator-based courses organized together with Aboa Mare, focusing on vessel handling, maneuvering and operational decision-making using propulsion systems supplied by Steerprop.

EcoNavis Solutions has completed retrofit installation of its Eco Boss Cap to a second vessel operated by Thailand-based Kaizen Ship Management. The successful installation marks the first repeat order for the energy-saving propeller technology since market introduction last year.The latest retrofit, carried out last week on the 32,491dwt bulk carrier YC Fortitude, follows the July 2025 installation on the 31,807dwt general cargo ship SYFC Araya. After six months of operation…

All American Marine (AAM) has begun construction on a next-gen 78’ x 26.7’ aluminum catamaran research vessel for the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI). The vessel is being built on Teknicraft Design’s multi-purpose research platform and is designed to support scientific research, survey, and teaching missions throughout the Gulf of Mexico, including offshore operations up to 150 nautical miles from shore.Purpose-built for multi-mission flexibility, the twin-engine…

lomarlabs has entered a collaboration with Blaze Energy to pilot a third-generation, compact, engine-integrated fuel reformer designed to accelerate the practical adoption of alternative fuels in commercial shipping.The collaboration will culminate in a pilot installation onboard a Lomar vessel, enabling Blaze Energy to validate its multi-fuel reforming system, under real marine operating conditions. The Flex-Fuel Reformer converts ammonia, methanol, or LNG into hydrogen directly onboard the ship…

Independent university testing has proved that marine fuel consumption and associated emissions could be reduced more quickly and cost-effectively than previously assumed, using existing vessels and standard fuels already in circulation.A study conducted by the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) has found that a fuel treatment technology developed by UK-based Fuelre4m delivered measurable efficiency improvements in large marine engines operating on conventional marine fuels.In the most conservative fixed test condition…

Chemical tanker operator Chemship has placed a repeat order with Dutch wind propulsion specialist Econowind for the installation of VentoFoils on two additional vessels, expanding its use of wind-assisted ship propulsion technology.Chemship said Chemical Contender and Chemical Fighter will each be fitted with four 16-meter ATEX-proof VentoFoils in the second half of 2026, as part of efforts to reduce fuel consumption and emissions across its fleet.The decision follows the installation of four 16-meter VentoFoils on Chemical Challenger in early 2024…

Singaporean shipbuilder Strategic Marine has delivered the second 27-metre Z-Bow Crew Transfer Vessel (CTV) to Taiwan for an undisclosed customer.With the delivery, Strategic Marine completed the two-vessel program for the client.Purpose-built for offshore wind farm duties, the vessel was developed in close collaboration with BMT Limited and features advanced marine engineering to ensure reliable performance in demanding operating conditions.Equipped with controllable pitch propellers…

Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd. (DSIC) unveiled a new generation of decarbonization-focused vessel designs, including a wind-assisted 175,000-cu.-m. LNG carrier that has received Approval in Principle (AiP) from Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV). Developed by DSIC, the wind-assisted LNG carrier introduces an integrated solution combining LNG dual-fuel propulsion with sail-assisted technology, offering a practical and cost-controlled upgrade pathway for the global fleet of 175,000 m³ LNG carriers. The vessel is equipped with three next-generation foldable wing sails based on proprietary technology. Manufactured using lightweight composite materials, the sails feature independent folding and rotation functions.

Finnish propulsion specialist Steerprop has been selected to supply a complete propulsion package—including the largest ducted propulsors ever produced by the company—for a new rock installation vessel ordered by Jan De Nul.The heavy-duty vessel, the third of its kind in Jan De Nul’s fleet, is designed primarily to work in the offshore energy sector, installing rock to protect cables on the seabed. To meet the demanding operational profile, the propulsion system must provide exceptional power and reliability—capable of propelling a vessel of up to 37…

Castrol, a global leader in lubricants, has launched Castrol BioTrans GB, a new lubricant for use in thrusters, some controllable pitch propeller (CPP) systems and deck machinery.Castrol BioTrans GB is an Environmentally Acceptable Lubricant (EAL) that complies with the current US Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA) criteria.Castrol BioTrans GB is an extreme pressure (EP) and demulsifying gear oil range developed with fully saturated synthetic esters and a specially selected additive technology.

The William E. Moran has entered service in New York, bringing enhanced capability and performance to Moran’s evolving fleet. As the first vessel in the company’s next-generation class, it is purpose-built to meet the demands of modern port operations, support evolving customer needs, and advance Moran’s goals for safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. These next-generation tugs will be among the largest in the fleet, underscoring Moran’s continued focus on delivering safe…

Fuel-agnostic and suitable for newbuilds and retrofit, Organic Rankine Cycle waste heat recovery systems are making headway as an energy-efficiency measure.Market prospects are looking so good for waste heat recovery systems that Orcan Energy recently expanded its industry relationships by partnering with Goltens on installations.Andreas Sichert, CEO of Orcan Energy, said: “Waste heat recovery is one of the most powerful and underutilized tools for improving energy efficiency.

Daphne Technology and Maran Gas, part of the Angelicoussis Group, announce the conclusion of their joint pilot project that marked the first deployment of SlipPure™ Plasma-Catalytic Methane Slip Aftertreatment system on board the commercial LNG carrier, the Maran Gas Chios.Methane slip, the unburned methane released from dual-fuel marine engines, remains a key challenge for LNG-fueled vessels. Addressing this challenge is essential to unlock the full potential of LNG as a lower-emission marine fuel.

U-Ming Marine Offshore (UMO) and Purus have teamed up to form UPO Holdings (UPO), a joint venture aimed at expanding offshore wind operations in Taiwan and the region.UPO is commissioning two state-of-the-art VARD 419 Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs), each 88 meters long and designed explicitly for Taiwan’s operating conditions.The vessels will be equipped with Seaonics All-Electric Walk-to-Work (W2W) 3D gangways, enhanced DP2 dynamic positioning, and hybrid propulsion…

Everllence has announced the world’s first conversion of an Everllence B&W S90 two-stroke engine to dual-fuel methanol running following the successful sea-trials of COSCO Shipping Lines’ 20,000+ TEU container vessel, COSCO Shipping Libra.The vessel’s 11S90ME-C engine was retrofitted to an 11S90ME-LGIM (-Liquid Gas Injection Methanol) unit.Everllence PrimeServ – Everllence’s after-sales division – partnered with COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry from concept to execution in delivering the world’s first S90 methanol engine retrofit…

More than 90% of global freight is transported by over 33,000 merchant marine vessels powered by two stroke crosshead engines as their main source of propulsion; the two-stroke diesel engine has been the backbone of global trade and globalization for well over half a century. Among one of the key factors supporting the reliability and uptime of these engines, keeping trade moving, is the effective performance of cylinder oil. Often referred to as the lifeblood of the engine, these oils provide critical protection to avoid abrasive…

Arguably there are no two names more closely related to Pilot Boat design and construction in the United States than Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding and Ray Hunt Designs. Together the dynamic duo has designed and built more than 80 vessels – not to mention a vibrant refurbish and repair operation – design and building for pilot organizations around the country. In a recent episode of Maritime Matters: The MarineLink Podcast, a trio of executives: Peter Duclos, President, Gladding-Hearn Shipbuilding…

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Kanadevia Corporation, and Yanmar Power Solutions have achieved a 98% methane slip reduction rate in onboard trials of LNG-fueled vessels, exceeding their initial target of 70%.The trials are part of the Green Innovation Fund Project ‘Development of Next-Generation Vessels’ led by Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).The project, which runs from fiscal 2021 through 2026, aims to combine methane oxidation catalysts…