Damen Unveils Sustainable Transformation for BAM Shipping's Fleet

[By: Damen Shipyards Group]

Damen Shipyards Group, in collaboration with Atal Solutions, has successfully retrofitted four bulk carriers for BAM Shipping. this initiative incorporates a range of innovative technologies aimed at significantly reducing fuel usage and emissions.

This retrofit marks a milestone as it’s the first instance where such diverse solutions have been implemented together. The project zeroed in on five key areas to enhance efficiency: water resistance, power optimization, propulsion improvement, emission reduction, and lubrication systems.

Boosting Efficiency
Initially planned upgrades included the Damen Air Cavity System (DACS), an advanced marine lubrication system; the Damen Triton IoT solution; low-friction anti-fouling paint; variable frequency drives; shore power capabilities; LED lighting; wake equalizing ducts; CO2 capture technology; and DEX QM lubrication.Collectively, these innovations were expected to cut fuel consumption by 20-25% while slashing emissions by about 90%. As work progressed, four additional efficiency-enhancing solutions were integrated into the project.

Expanding Horizons
These new additions featured fuel additives, oil lubricant enhancements, a specialized Hempel propeller coating, and nano EFX—a spray that ionizes humidity at the engine’s air intake for optimal combustion. This minimizes both fuel use and harmful carbon deposits. In just a few weeks ahead of classification society RINA’s verification process—where total fuel savings will be confirmed—two vessels have already shown promising results post-retrofit. These improvements are also set to lower operational costs significantly.

Extending Lifespan
The retrofitting prepares these bulk carriers to meet recent regulations like Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI). Moreover, this work is projected to extend their operational lifespan by around twelve years. While Damen handled the retrofit itself,Atal Solutions secured $123.7 million in funding for this venture through supplier credit arrangements that required minimal equity from vessel owners over a competitive twelve-year repayment period.

A Collaborative Spirit
Rutger van Dam from Damen expressed enthusiasm about this groundbreaking project: “Integrating so manny different solutions into one cohesive effort is truly unique! we faced challenges along the way but achieved great results thanks to our dedicated team.” He emphasized that lessons learned here will guide future endeavors toward enduring maritime practices.

Edwin Sieswerda of Atal Solutions shared his satisfaction with early outcomes: “We’re eager for class verification soon—it’ll clarify how effective our measures have been regarding fuel savings.” He praised Damen’s receptiveness during discussions about new ideas throughout the retrofit process as crucial for success.
“In today’s maritime landscape filled with uncertainties regarding energy transitions,” he added thoughtfully, “being open-minded like Damen has proven essential for steering our industry toward sustainability.”