Numerical Study of Advanced Sail Design Optimization Based on Environmental Conditions Towards Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI)

The demand for maritime transportation has increased significantly over the past two
decades, accompanied by the rise of green technology interventions aimed at improving energy
efficiency, reducing emissions, and lowering operational costs. The International Maritime
Organization (IMO) has implemented new regulations limiting CO2 emissions through the Energy
Efficiency Design Index (EEDI). These regulations necessitate precise technological adaptations.
This study investigates the application of rotor sail technology, which harnesses wind power to
provide additional thrust to vessels. Numerical studies using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
simulations have been conducted with rotor heights of 20, 25, and 30 meters under wind speeds of
5, 10, and 15 m/s. EEDI analysis has been performed for four vessel types, 50,000, 100,000, 150,000,
and 200,000 DWT, with and without rotor sails. The results demonstrate that implementing sail
technology significantly enhances the energy efficiency of vessels, as evidenced by a reduction in
the EEDI across various vessel types and wind speeds. Efficiency improvements are particularly
pronounced at higher wind speeds, highlighting the advantages of sails in favorable conditions.
Additionally, larger vessels experience greater efficiency gains when utilizing sail technology. These
findings underscore the potential of sail technology to reduce emissions and support the
sustainability of maritime operations. Copyright © 2025 Praise Worthy Prize S.r.l. - All rights
reserved.