The Norwegian company Pascal-Technology has developed an innovative hull shape for gliders that is designed to significantly reduce energy consumption at high speeds. The patented AirHull technology utilises an air cushion under the hull to reduce water resistance.
The first boat to be equipped with this system is the aluminium Nabwork 1240 Electric, built by Moen Marin AS in Trondheim.
How the AirHull hull works
The AirHull hull has a specially moulded underbody with air ducts. An electrically driven fan in the bow blows air into these channels while travelling. This creates an air cushion between the hull and the water surface when gliding. Electronically controlled flaps at the stern regulate the air flow. This allows the pressure under the hull to be adapted to the respective sailing situation. This air cushion reduces the hull resistance and thus the energy required for propulsion.
Energy savings in comparison
According to the manufacturer, AirHull technology should reduce total energy consumption by 30-50% compared to conventional hulls. These values relate to the sum of the drive power and energy requirement for the air blower fan. Depending on the speed, the fan itself should account for around 5-15% of the total energy consumption.
Application example electric ferry
Pascal Technology cites the design of an all-electric 27-metre ferry for 150 passengers as an example of efficiency. At a cruising speed of 35 knots, this should consume 30% less energy than a comparable diesel catamaran. This is despite the fact that the electric boat is heavier due to the batteries.
Potential for emission-free speedboat transport
AirHull technology could make an important contribution to the electrification of shipping and water sports. Thanks to the lower energy requirement, the range of electric boats can be increased or the battery capacity and thus the weight reduced. This also makes emission-free drives interesting for planing boats, where range has been a problem up to now.
Technical data
- Length: 12 m
- Width: 4 m
- Depth: 1,4m
- Battery performance: 378 kWh
- travelling speed: 20-25 kn
- Max. Speed: 30 kn
- Range in gliding mode: 40 nm
- Energy saving when gliding: 30-50% compared to conventional hulls
- Energy consumption air blower: 5-15% of total consumption
Torsten Moench
Editor in Chief BOOTE
