DNV certifies explosion-proof version of Norsepower’s rotor sails

September 10, 2024, by Aida Čučuk

Classification society DNV has issued a type approval design certificate (TADC) to Finnish cleantech company Norsepower for its explosion-proof (EX) version of the 28m x 4m Norsepower Rotor Sail (NPRS).

According to Norsepower, the TADC confirms that the NPRS meets the stringent safety and performance standards required for installation in hazardous zones on tankers and other vessels carrying explosive liquids or gases.

“This certification means that shipbuilders can now benefit from a more streamlined approval process, reducing the documentation and discussions required for class approval of vessels equipped with Norsepower Rotor Sails,” the company noted.

Norsepower’s new EX design is said to offer protection to all critical components inside the rotor sail, such as the power unit and electrical cabinets. The company said that, unlike previous component-based systems, this design utilizes a pressurized air system that eliminates flammable gases, ensuring the critical parts of the rotor sail comply with EX design requirements.

Heikki Pöntynen, CEO of Norsepower, commented: “This new certification by DNV serves as proof of our commitment to advancing safety and innovation in the maritime industry. Our long-standing collaboration with DNV, which began with the development of the first-ever WAPS-related Type Approval Design Certificate, has been instrumental in setting industry standards. We are proud to continue pioneering advancements that make wind-assisted propulsion more accessible and safer for all.”

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime, stated: “As the maritime industry works to decarbonize, technologies which offer the potential to improve energy efficiency become ever more important. This is why we are so pleased to be able to award Norsepower this certificate, as it opens up new segments to reap the benefits of WAPS and is another milestone in this longstanding cooperation.”

Norsepower and DNV first joined forces on the inaugural TADC for the NPRS model 30m x 5m, and as per Norsepower, the collaboration made an important contribution towards the development of DNV’s wind-assisted propulsion system (WAPS) technical standard.

“With the DNV certification, Norsepower Rotor Sails™ are now even more adaptable to a broader range of vessels, ensuring compliance with safety regulations while contributing to the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transportation,” Norsepower remarked.