Weather data tool a bonus for Maersk Line can save fuel by planning the optimum route and speed
Maersk Line is using a new tool that updates ships with changing weather conditions on their routes to improve reliability.
ECO-Voyage tool, developed by Maersk Maritime Technology (MMT) and Maersk Line Captains, continuously analyses information on expected ocean currents, depths, wind and waves along a planned route to determine the most efficient power and speed needed during the voyage.
The information is then shared with the rest of the Maersk fleet so vessels sailing on the route can use the data.
According to MMT, potential fuel savings from the ECO-Voyage tool can be up to 1% a year.
MMT’s Kim Henriksen said: “The programme enables the captain to run several alternative routes and see how much difference in fuel consumption there would be.
“Also, our large vessels can plan a dual-speed voyage to optimise the use of the waste heat recovery system. It should improve their confidence in choosing an alternative route.”
Since October, 15 vessels of varying sizes, including several of the fleet’s largest, have been testing ECO-Voyage. Rollout to the 220 vessels in Maersk Line’s container fleet is planned for this year.
