BV releases new-generation classification rules for wind propulsion systems
These rules will help support and drive the development of zero carbon propulsion options for modern ships.
The new Bureau Veritas rule notation for WIND PROPULSION SYSTEMS (WPS) – NR 206, builds on pre-existing BV rules released in 1987. Now two new notations have been issued to provide the classification requirements for modern wind powered ships: WPS 1 for standing rigging and WPS 2 for standing and running rigging.
Both provide load cases and coefficients for all types of wind propulsion technologies including free standing rigs, wing sails, kite sails and wind turbines.
The new rules provide the key classification framework for wind assisted propulsion. Firstly at the design review stage, safety and interactions with other systems on board must be addressed and, secondly, for in-service life, the rules address survey regime and maintenance requirements.
General requirements that must be addressed include:
- Risk analysis / hazard identification (HAZID) studies
- Definition of load cases and critical situations
- Definition of automation and release system
- Definition of wind propulsion system impacts on ship safety
- Ship strength; influence on hull girder strength, addressing bending moments and shear forces
- local strength in way of connections between wind propulsion systems and the ship including the mast footings, boom, deck, standing rigging attachments to the ship and maneuvering systems
In addition, the rules require an operational manual including limitations of operation of wind propulsion systems in accordance with its design, such as wind speed limitations.
Yves Pelpel, Senior Vice President Technical at Chantiers de l ‘Atlantique, said:
“With the concept of solid sail, first of its kind of a new generation of very large sails made of rigid panels and its Aeoldrive balestron rigging, Chantiers de l ‘Atlantique is offering the most advanced and innovative solution of sailing propulsion of the large ships market. The integration on-board a passenger ship of such an innovative solution is only possible thanks to the tremendous collaborative work done with Bureau Veritas on its new rules Wind Assisted Propulsion."
