Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Air Cavity, ALS and Air Lubrication systems?
Air Lubrication Systems, abbreviated to ALS and sometimes called ‘bubble’ or ‘bubbler systems’, work on a very different principle by maintaining a constant injection of air bubbles to the flat bottom of a ship. The air reduces the friction/ resistance/drag which means that the power needed for propulsion can be reduced, thereby saving fuel and the subsequent emissions.
Silverstream Technologies’ air lubrication system is specially designed to use very little energy thus the fuel savings are increased. The Wärtsilä Encyclopedia of Marine Technology explains further.
What impact does Air Lubrication have on the speed of the vessels?
Does the Silverstream Technologies system conflict with other fuel saving measures?
In the case of specialised paints, the constant flow of air discourages marine growth on the flat bottom of the vessel, our system would complement antifouling painting or coating, which, first and foremost addresses fouling on the sides of the vessels.
How is the saving measured and verified?
Which shipping segments does Silverstream target?
How long would a retrofit installation take?
The industry and media is flooded with phrases like green shipping, green maritime, green technology, marine innovation, clean technology, eco-ship, eco-marine, ship efficiency etc. Where is Silverstream Technologies in that context?
Is Silverstream Technologies’ system something that complies with or is easily identified in, the initiatives with EEDI, EEOI, SEEMP AND ISO 19030?
EEOI, SEEMP and ISO 19030 are concerned with measurement and monitoring of performance. This is certainly an area that would benefit from the simplicity of verifying our system, by switching it on and off at short intervals.