Marine equipment supplier, Ecochlor, Inc is to provide technical assistance and global sales and marketing support for Armada Technologies’ hull air lubrication system
Ecochlor and Armada Technologies have joined forces via a collaborative agreement around Armada’s patented method of hull air lubrication.
Armada is currently developing what it says is the world’s first “naturally aspirated air lubrication system”. In contrast to existing solutions, Armada said its patented system operates in a “semi-passive mode”.
Armada calls hull air lubrication technology as a whole “the optimal means of driving energy efficiency in shipping operations,” which, “once optimised is readily deployable across the entirety of the world’s merchant fleet”.
The reduction in friction is said to lead to a reduction in fuel consumption and aid in fuel efficiency and lowering the carbon footprint on the vessels on which it is used.
Armada Technologies CEO Alexander Routledge explained the difference between the Armada system and other hull air lubrication system.
“Our system is more advanced than any other hull lubrication technology on the market today. Armada utilises the ship’s own forward motion to help drive the system. An eductor is used to draw air in whilst a series of micro bubble emitters distribute the bubble swarm under the ship; this significantly reduces drag, offering clear and immediate benefits to any shipowner looking to reduce emissions on their ships.”
The Armada hull air lubrication system is expected to be available to shipowners by the end of 2022. The system will deliver an estimated fuel saving of 10-12%, according to Armada, depending on hull design and is effective regardless of fuel type.
Ecochlor CEO Andrew Marshall commented: “I am very excited to introduce the Armada system to the maritime industry. In comparison to hull lubrication competitors, the Armada system has a relatively low installation and operating cost. Its unique design uses less power than other hull lubrication technologies, decouples speed from drag reduction and is easier to maintain. This provides an economic payback to the shipowner within a shorter period of time.”
Armada Technologies, CEO Alexander Routledge said, “This agreement with Ecochlor … offers us the strong engineering, sales and marketing support that we need to jump into the maritime industry. We are very much looking forward to collaborating with their … team and our future alliance.”
