Ecospeed Operation

Voyage instructions are provided with a strong focus on completion in the most economical manner.

A number of factors are considered when forming these instructions, including the weather, engine load, propeller pitch, ship speed, routing trim and the required arrival time. A voyage will always commence at the most economical speed (lowest FOC/NM), if the arrival time allows.

In order to ensure all staff understand the term Ecospeed, we have provided both guidance and often discuss this subject during seminars and training. Over time, this has helped to change the approach and focus of those providing vessel instructions, along with the ships’ Masters and Chief Engineers.

Energy Monitoring Equipment  – On board

The vast majority of the vessels in the Carisbrooke Shipping fleet have been installed with Energy Monitoring Equipment.

The equipment provides the captains and their officers with an insight into the efficiency of the vessel at any given time, which, in turn, enables them to take action to optimize the fuel consumption by maximizing energy efficiency.

The equipment’s user display interface, located on the bridge, provides real time information, including the current FOC/NM and the speed, both over ground and through the water, along with a code efficiency figure.

To provide this information, the system uses a number of performance indicators, including data from the prop shaft rpm, prop pitch, engine load FO temperature, FO flow meter, speed log, GPS, wind speed/direction and shaft alternator load.

This data are captured and analysis can then be carried out over a set period against the newbuild sea trial reports and engine test bed reports initially provided for the vessel. Alarms can be set to highlight when the vessel is running outside these efficiency levels.

Carisbrooke Shipping has seen results from the system in real savings on fuel consumption, which, in turn, makes the ship’s operation more efficient.

Vessel Performance Monitoring

The onboard Energy Monitoring Equipment is utilized to send regular automated data reports to customized office software.

From the software, the vessel’s performance can be analyzed to determine individual vessel performance over time or that of the vessel’s sister ships, etc.

The technical team ashore is able to determine early if a vessel’s underwater hull or propeller is fouled and is then able to take the necessary actions to improve further vessel efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.

Weather Optimal System

The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) provides Carisbrooke Shipping with a weather optimal system, both on board and ashore. They track all vessels and provide weather routing information dependent upon cargo type, expected weather patterns, etc.

By using the data to optimize the route, this gives the opportunity to reduce the voyage time, not only reducing fuel consumption, but also the possibility of damage and any speed claims against the owner.

Both the technical and operational teams on shore are able to use this date to further analyze vessel performance and work together to make Carisbrooke Shipping’s activity a more sustainable model.

COMING SOON: Fleet Navigation & Monitoring Center

Carisbrooke’s intention is to build a center of excellence, utilizing all the tools mentioned and more, to increase the CULTURE OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY and improve vessel efficiency even further. This will be manned by experienced Masters during shore secondment periods at the Cowes UK Head Office.