Vacuum mooring replaces ropes to complete fully autonomous fleet

A fleet of fully autonomous, zero-emission ships will automatically moor in port thanks to the introduction of a new vacuum mooring system.

Replacing the system of ropes and chains that has anchored ships in port for thousands of years, the MoorMaster NxG from Cavotec can reportedly moor ships in as little as 30 seconds to drastically reduce docking times.

The system, which is the latest generation of the technology and was launched today (27 October), uses automated vacuum pads that connect to and release vessels in seconds. Cavotec claims the pads can attach to any flat surface.

The shorter mooring turnaround could mean more time cruising at lower speeds, reducing fuel consumption. Hands-free mooring could also increase port productivity and help prevent accidents.

Asko Maritime, the shipping arm of Norway’s largest grocery chain, will use the MoorMaster NxG in its Oslo Fjord operations. Fully electric ships will sail autonomously from port to port, replacing 2 million kilometres of truck transport and saving 5,000 tonnes of CO₂ every year.

CEO Kai Just Olsen said: “The MoorMaster system will save us huge amounts of energy and is a key enabler of autonomous operations. Since we won’t need to use the powerful bow and side thrusters in port, our electric vessels will use less energy and also extend the battery lifetime. The MoorMaster technology is perfect to complement our new ships – using modern technology for a futuristic fleet.”

Want the best engineering stories delivered straight to your inbox? The Professional Engineering newsletter gives you vital updates on the most cutting-edge engineering and exciting new job opportunities. To sign up, click here.

Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.