Recently, the Shanghai Merchant Ship Design & Research Institute (SDARI), a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), announced the successful sea trials of its independently developed second-generation intelligent Bubble Lubrication System (BLS).

The system was installed for the first time on a 50,000-ton product oil/chemical tanker and successfully passed rigorous sea trial verification in a single attempt. This achievement marks a significant breakthrough in China’s green marine equipment sector and provides a new pathway for energy conservation and emission reduction in the shipping industry.

Advanced Energy-Saving Technology

Bubble lubrication is an innovative energy-saving technology recognized and promoted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The system works by continuously releasing compressed air beneath the ship’s hull, forming a stable microbubble layer between the hull surface and seawater. This transforms the boundary layer into a gas-liquid mixture, effectively reducing frictional resistance during navigation.

By lowering resistance, the system reduces engine load and fuel consumption. It also helps suppress marine biofouling, mitigating hull contamination and maintaining vessel performance over time.

Improved Performance with Intelligent Control

Compared with the first-generation system introduced in 2022, the second-generation BLS features significant enhancements. It further optimizes the air supply system to reduce energy consumption while improving overall net energy-saving efficiency.

In addition, the system incorporates intelligent control capabilities. It can automatically adjust air output based on real-time operating conditions such as vessel speed and draft. Through an integrated Digital Operation Support System (DOSS), it enables real-time monitoring and analysis of onboard performance and energy-saving effects.

According to available data, vessels equipped with the second-generation BLS achieve an additional net energy-saving improvement of approximately 5%, with energy efficiency performance significantly outperforming comparable ships.

Supporting Green Transformation of Shipping

SDARI has long focused on hydrodynamic energy-saving technologies and ship design innovation. In addition to the BLS, the institute has developed a range of energy-efficient products, including high-efficiency propellers, ducts, energy-saving hub caps, and twisted rudders.

By combining advanced technologies with integrated retrofit services for existing vessels, SDARI continues to provide comprehensive solutions for improving ship energy efficiency. The successful deployment of the second-generation BLS further demonstrates its capability in supporting the maritime industry’s transition toward greener, more sustainable operations.

Original Link: https://shipoffshore.com.cn/info/detail/50-37193.html