RINA has introduced a new 'future-ready' ship propulsion concept named Mermaid. The classification society stated that this design aims to assist shipowners in decreasing fuel consumption, lowering emissions, and bolstering operational resilience.
The Mermaid concept also seeks to safeguard the long-term asset value of vessels. RINA announced on its website that the design expands the function of a vessel's efficient two-stroke main engine beyond just propulsion.
This expansion allows the main engine to serve as the primary source of onboard power. Consequently, the concept reduces the vessel's dependence on less efficient auxiliary engines, as reported by RINA.
The core of the Mermaid concept involves integrating a shaft generator, a propeller shaft clutch, and battery energy storage. These components are combined within a specific propulsion architecture.
RINA indicated that this integrated architecture is expected to improve overall efficiency. The classification society did not specify the exact efficiency gains but highlighted the concept's potential benefits.
The new design is presented as a solution to help the maritime industry meet future environmental and operational challenges. RINA aims to provide shipowners with tools to adapt to evolving regulations and market demands.
