Enterprises Shipping & Trading SA has selected PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 1290 fouling release coating to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions of its fleet.
PPG announced that Enterprises Shipping & Trading SA (EST) has chosen PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 1290 silicone fouling release coating to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions of its fleet.
PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 1290 is biocide-free. It has the ability to reduce the frictional resistance of fleet hull surfaces, which decreases power demand and related emissions. PPG has conducted several studies in collaboration with leading independent maritime institutes to measure the impact of power and speed on ships retrofitted with PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 1290. These tests determined that the coating provides a 20% reduction in power consumed at design level, and up to 35% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions when compared with traditional antifouling coatings.
The coating allows EST to achieve its carbon reduction goals relying on energy-efficient technologies. EST vessels that have been retrofitted with energy-efficient technologies are demonstrating a power reduction of more than 20%. PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 1290 contributes significantly to this performance.
“EST is a pioneer in energy-efficient operations and is committed to minimizing its environmental impact. Our investment in PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 1290 coating is a major contributor to our goals of achieving the maximum efficiency potential of our fleet and not only meeting but exceeding the carbon reduction goals set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO)”, said George Sarris, President, Enterprises Shipping & Trading SA.
IMO's greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy for the shipping sector foresees a reduction in carbon intensity of 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050 compared to 2008, as well as a reduction of total GHG emissions from shipping by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008. The IMO's published list of energy efficiency technologies capable of directly shifting the power curve includes silicone coatings.
“PPG SIGMAGLIDE® 1290 silicone coating can help shipowners comply with IMO regulations by contributing to a significant speed improvement and increased operational efficiency,” said Ariana Psomas, PPG segment director, newbuilding and drydocking, Protective & Marine Coatings. “The coating’s ultra-smooth surface enables vessel operators to improve their speed and save on power consumption while also resisting even the most difficult fouling conditions.”