Decarbonize ocean shipping
with zero-emission, whale-inspired propulsion systems
We are designing “zero fuel” auxiliary propulsion systems based on a wave energy converting technology inspired by whale tail fins, and developed with leading French research organization Ifremer.
« Climate change widespread, rapid, and intensifying » – IPCC, August 2021
Time is running out if we are to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. At Bluefins we are convinced that we need to target the largest emitting industry sectors to accelerate global decarbonization. Transportation alone accounts for nearly 17% of all GHG emissions.
« Climate change widespread, rapid, and intensifying » – IPCC, August 2021
Time is running out if we are to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. At Bluefins we are convinced that we need to target the largest emitting industry sectors to accelerate global decarbonization. Transportation alone accounts for nearly 17% of all GHG emissions.
Ocean shipping, a pillar of global trade
90%
of the world traded goods
are carried by sea.
Ocean shipping, a pillar of global trade
90%
of the world traded goods
are carried by sea.
Our solution
The most efficient wave-energy converting technology
Our solution
The most efficient wave-energy converting technology
A dynamic auxiliary
propulsion system inspired
by whale tail fins
Our breakthrough innovative solution, developed in partnership with leading French research institute Ifremer, consists of an hydrofoil attached to the stern of the ship through a set of mechanical articulations.
Just like a whale’s tail fin propels the animal forward, our hydrofoil thus converts the pitching motion of the ship into forward propulsion.
Efficient propulsion
Fuel savings of at least 20%
Low GHG emission
min 20% reduction in CO2,
SOx & NOx emissions
Better stability
Pitch reduction
Applications
Our engineering team develops tailor-made solutions for each type of ship, taking into account architecture, safety and other specific requirements or constraints.
Our technology can be integrated on newbuild vessels, as well as existing ones during refit operations.
Why Bluefins ?
High performing
20% fuel savings
- A set of mechanical articulations aimed at amplifying the hydrofoil motion, achieving a x4
- A control command system ensures maximum gain in all wave and wind conditions
- A secure, lifted position when sea conditions are not favourable for hydrofoil propulsion
No deck impact
- Located at the stern of the ship, it does not get in the way of your loading/unloading operations
- The lifted position is designed to warrant a mooring configuration suitable for any quay configuration
Safety first
Always under control
- Automatically lifted up when sea conditions are too harsh.
- The lifted position warrants access to the emergency towing system, and is secured by a locking system
- The redundancy of the lifting system is ensured by additional jacks powered by a separate auxiliary hydraulic power unit
Flexible and reliable
- Can be installed on all ships (container ships, bulk carriers, LNG carriers, oil tankers, etc), newbuilds or already existing.
- Can be plugged during refit and maintenance operations.
- Mechanical connections are designed to ensure durability, biofouling resistance and waterproofness for the most sensitive parts
Our partners
115 rue Claude Chappe
29280 Plouzane
France
Contact us
contact@bluefins-systems.com