FUEL ECONOMY

Fuel economy is undoubtedly one of today's major reasons for up-keep of the hull. Fuel costs account for about half of a ships operating costs. A drop in speed requires extra power from the engine with a consequent increase in fuel consumption. It is obvious that a smooth hull is essential for the economical operation of a ship.

For example:

Over the course of one year of operation, a tanker (270 000 tons displacement) traveling between the Persian Gulf and Europe, drops from 17 to 14 knots of speed (without hull cleaning). In order to maintain a ship's performance, the ship-owner is forced to increase the consumption of fuel and lubricating materials.