Elomatic has installed its patented Elogrid tunnel thruster technology on Germany’s new METEOR IV research vessel. The innovation aims to improve maneuverability, fuel efficiency and dynamic positioning for climate and environmental missions.
Elomatic has completed the installation of its Elogrid tunnel thruster system on the new German research vessel METEOR IV, marking a milestone for the energy-saving technology as it is adopted in a newbuild project.
The 125-meter, 10,000 GT vessel is being constructed by the MEYER FASSMER Spezialschiffbau consortium, a joint venture between Fassmer and Meyer Group, for the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). Once in service, it will support international projects with a focus on climate and environmental research in the Atlantic.
Elomatic’s patented Elogrid system is designed to enhance side thrust force in tunnel thrusters, improving maneuverability while reducing fuel consumption. The technology has previously been retrofitted on existing ships, but this is one of the first times it is integrated from the design stage of a vessel.
For the METEOR IV, the main objective was to improve dynamic positioning capability, which is essential for research operations. Tests have shown that Elogrid blades can boost side thrust by five to eight percent compared to standard tunnel thruster operation. In addition, vessels equipped with Elogrid can expect fuel savings of one to four percent during normal cruising conditions.
“Our collaboration with MEYER FASSMER Spezialschiffbau marks a significant step forward in the development of the Elogrid solution,” said Jari Yli-Tolppa, Vice President Shipowner Services at Elomatic. “The METEOR IV project is a prime example of how the Elogrid solution can be incorporated into the initial design phase of a vessel, establishing a blueprint for future new build projects, to support ship owners that are looking to improve their vessel’s performance, increase efficiencies, as well as reduce their carbon footprint.”
Fassmer’s Managing Director, Jan Oskar Henkel, said: “Our collaboration with Elomatic allows us to meet the specific performance requirements for the METEOR IV’s dynamic positioning capability. The Elogrid technology enhances the vessel’s performance while contributing to efficient operations.”
The METEOR IV is expected to become a vital platform for Germany’s research community, providing advanced capabilities to study ocean systems and climate change. By integrating new energy-saving technology into its design, the vessel also reflects the broader push in the maritime sector toward efficiency and sustainability.
