German ship operator Hansa Shipping has been using Interschalt’s MACS3 loading computer for its own container fleet for several years now. In order to operate its vessels even more efficiently, Hansa’s Managing Director Peter Mackeprang has opted for a system upgrade and placed an order for 30 trim[ds_preview] optimisation modules (TROP) for the loading computer.
Interschalt’s TROP software optimises trim with regards to the current loading condition and main engine power. As an integrated module of the MACS3 loading computer, it ensures best possible ballast distribution, whereby extreme demands are made in terms of fuel efficiency and safety alongside vessel stability.
»Combining the loading computer with a sophisticated module for improving efficiency by optimising trim is another step in the right direction to being able to offer a modern, energy-efficient fleet to our charterers,« says Mackeprang on the acquisition of the system upgrade, which will be used on vessels ranging from 2,500 to 6,500 TEU. »With TROP, every customer can optimise trim easily and hence save fuel and money.«
The system gives the crew recommendations on how to most efficiently trim their ship for a specific targeted speed. The optimum settings are attained by means of ship data and design blueprints, based on which computer simulations (CFD) can be performed. Bunker cost savings of up to 3 % can be achieved this way, Interschalt states.
In addition to the static TROP there is now a dynamic D-TROP, which is based on data measured during ship operations. It draws on real-time data, for example weather data like wind speed and direction. These data are collected and displayed via the monitoring software Bluetracker. It combines these data derived from various sources such as the alarm and monitoring systems, the machinery or the navigation system. These data are also available to the Bluewave module, which provides details on the optimum course, speed and probable ship movements, while taking into account the weather data, the shipping route and sea conditions.
