BW Epic Kosan expands use of GIT Coatings following 6% out-of-dock fuel savings and maintained hull performance

BW Epic Kosan has officially expanded its strategic partnership with GIT Coatings to enhance hull performance across its specialized LPG fleet. Following a successful trial that yielded a 6% reduction in fuel consumption, the company has now applied biocide-free graphene coatings to five gas carriers, with a sixth vessel currently undergoing application in dry dock. This initiative represents a significant technical advancement for BWEK, focusing on proactive hull management to optimize hydrodynamic efficiency and reduce overall vessel emissions.

This transition to advanced hull coatings aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) MARPOL Annex VI regulations, which mandate strict adherence to the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII). By maintaining a cleaner hull surface, operators can significantly lower their vessel’s carbon footprint, ensuring compliance with evolving classification society requirements and environmental standards. For technical and compliance departments, these performance-driven coatings serve as a vital tool in meeting decarbonization targets while simultaneously mitigating the long-term operational costs associated with hull fouling and drag.

For chief engineers and second engineers, this shift necessitates a deeper understanding of biocide-free coating maintenance and hull performance monitoring. These engine department officers must now prioritize the tracking of fuel consumption data to validate the 6% savings reported by the fleet. Furthermore, they should ensure that underwater cleaning procedures are strictly aligned with the manufacturer’s guidelines for graphene-based surfaces to prevent premature degradation of the coating and maintain optimal vessel efficiency during long-haul voyages.