New rules published for wind propulsion systems

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, ensuring safety and interactions with other systems onboard are addressed, and, secondly, for in-service life, wherein the rules address survey regime and maintenance requirements.

Yves Pelpel, Senior Vice President Technical at Chantiers de l‘Atlantique, said: “With the concept of solid sail, a 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 in 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 for Wind Assisted Propulsion.”

By Jake Frith