Abstract
The evaluation test of a newly developed self-polishing anti-fouling bottom paint has been carried out by the training ship Fukae-maru (449G/T) of the graduate school of maritime sciences, Kobe University. In the past four years, 4 types of bottom paints, including both low-friction coating and conventional paint types, have been evaluated through speed trials at Harima-Nada of the Seto Inland Sea. The hull frictional resistance based on the viscosity of sea water accounts for 70-80% of the total resistance at low speed range and accounts for 40-50% at high speed. Reducing the frictional resistance of the bottom shell plating leads not only to a decrease of ship’s fuel consumption but also to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Results of speed trials show a fuel saving of more than 4 % with low friction coatings as compared to that with conventional anti-fouling bottom paints.
