By
Laura Hyde |
Finnlines is to roll out a graphene-based hard foul release hull coating across its ro-ro and ro-pax fleets following a seven per cent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions on four of its vessels treated with the GIT Coatings XGIT-Fuel hull coating.
The first Finnlines vessel was treated with XGIT-Fuel in 2022. Since then, three more vessels have been treated with the low-friction hull coating, reducing fuel consumption and emissions by around seven per cent (compared to previously used coating) thanks to reduced vessel drag.
A biocide-free, hard foul release coating, XGIT-Fuel offers an alternative to conventional anti-fouling and soft-foul release hull coatings. It incorporates graphene to reduce vessel drag, enhance resistance to mechanical damage, and it can be cleaned without affecting the surface of the coating. Its application requires only one layer and, as it can be applied in temperatures from -5 to 40°C, vessels can be upgraded during scheduled for winter drydocking.
“Our commitment to sustainability is at the forefront of every decision we make,” said Thomas Doepel, vice president and deputy CEO at Finnlines. “By integrating XGIT-Fuel into our fleet, we are not only reducing costs and advancing our environmental goals but also setting a new standard in the industry for environmental responsibility.”