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The fuel-saving sail-powered cargo ship represents a milestone in maritime sustainability and is expected to return to Asia with 63.000 tons of soybeans
On Friday, September 15, 2023, Brazil marks a historic feat by receiving the world's first sail-powered, fuel-saving cargo ship, the Pyxis Ocean. Coming directly from Shanghai, China, this innovative vessel will dock at the Port of Paranaguá, Paraná, to be loaded with 63.000 tons of soybean meal and return to Asia. This achievement is the result of a charter from the giant in the grain and commodities sector, Cargill, which opted for the Mitsubishi Corporation ship, according to the Poder 360 website.
The Pyxis Ocean operation will take place in the eastern export corridor of the Port of Paranaguá, a region that saw the movement of 15,3 million tons of grains, including soybeans, corn and soybean meal, during the first eight months of this year. This innovative vessel arrives to revolutionize the way agricultural products are transported, providing significant environmental benefits.
The Technology Behind the Pyxis Ocean Low-Fuel Sailing Vessel
Pyxis Ocean's operation is notable for its environmentally friendly and efficient approach, without using much fuel. This ship pioneer is equipped with two windwings, metallic sails that use a material similar to that of wind turbines, making them more durable. These giant sails, also known as wings, have an impressive height of 37,5 meters.
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During the period in which the ship is anchored in the port, the sails remain folded and are only opened after navigation has begun. The technology, called BAR Tech WindWings, has the ability to save fuel by reducing dependence on conventional engines, taking advantage of the strength of the winds to propel the ship.
Thanks to the use of sails, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are reduced by up to 30%, which can increase even further if the vessel opts for renewable fuels. This fuel saving technology was developed by BAR Technologies, in collaboration with Yara Marine Technologies, with support from the European Union. Its main objective is to promote innovation, reduce operating costs and minimize pollutant emissions.
Implementing these sails on a single ship results in daily savings of approximately 1,5 tons of fuel. Unlike the cloth sails used in the past, the material used in this system offers greater durability and reliability. This signals great potential for this system in the future of commercial shipping.
Pyxis Ocean Data: A revolution in navigation
Pyxis Ocean, owned by Mitsubishi Corporation, flies the Singapore flag and specializes in transporting dry bulk such as grain. Its construction was completed in 2017, and its value is estimated at US$29 million. With a length of 229 meters, the ship is powered by two metallic sails that work together with an auxiliary engine to facilitate the navigation. Each of these sails is impressive with its 37,5 meters in height, developed with British technology, using the same material found in wind turbines.
This achievement marks a significant step towards maritime sustainability and highlights Brazil's commitment to adopting innovative technologies to reduce the carbon footprint in the shipping industry. The arrival of Pyxis Ocean at the Port of Paranaguá is a historic milestone that will hopefully inspire further advances towards a cleaner, greener future for global shipping.
