Image credit: Pacific Basin.
In a landmark move for the dry bulk shipping industry, Pacific Basin, a leading company, is pioneering the use of a sustainable graphene-based propeller coating across its entire fleet. This ambitious project marks the largest adoption of this technology in the sector, surpassing previous efforts by Stolt Tankers and Eastern Pacific Shipping.
The new coating, dubbed XGIT-PROP and developed by Canadian company GIT Coatings, tackles a persistent challenge for dry bulk carriers – maintaining peak propeller efficiency.
“For over a decade, we’ve relied on silicone paint to keep our propellers smooth,” says Sanjay Relan, General Manager of Optimisation & Decarbonisation at Pacific Basin. “But this method has limitations. Damage around the edges necessitates complete removal and reapplication during drydocking, a time-consuming and costly process.”
Pacific Basin is confident that XGIT-PROP will overcome these hurdles. Initial testing on a Supramax vessel yielded promising results, indicating the coating will maintain a smoother, more resilient surface for extended periods, leading to improved overall vessel efficiency.
This shift towards graphene-based technology underscores Pacific Basin’s commitment to sustainable practices and continuous improvement within the dry bulk shipping industry. Fuel efficiency studies conducted by Stolt Tankers in 2022 suggest that XGIT-PROP has the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to 4%.
“We anticipate not only improved CII ratings, but also efficiency gains that will enhance our vessels’ RightShip GHG ratings,” explains Relan. “On a fleet-wide scale, we expect significant reductions in both environmental impact and operational expenses.”
GIT Coatings highlights that XGIT-PROP is specifically designed for the harsh conditions faced by propellers. Unlike conventional biocide-based soft foul release coatings, which release silicone oils and often peel away, XGIT-PROP is a biocide-free hard foul release solution. This innovative coating combines a robust adhesive primer with a tough topcoat, ensuring a consistently smooth propeller surface throughout the drydocking cycle.
The rollout of XGIT-PROP has begun on 40 Pacific Basin vessels scheduled for dry dock maintenance in 2024.
With the ever-present need to meet environmental targets, control costs, and maintain efficiency, shipowners are actively seeking solutions to achieve near-term industry goals. Graphene-based coatings, like the one offered by GIT, hold immense promise as the industry strives to enhance the performance of existing fleets, ultimately contributing to the IMO’s ambitious goal of a 30% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030.