Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has introduced a new Fouling Analysis application, utilising big data to analyse marine biofouling on the underwater surfaces of ships to create optimal maintenance strategies for improved performance, such as hull cleaning during operation or painting during drydock.
The software has been added as part of the company’s broader FOCUS big data utilisation initiative, with the aim of reducing unnecessary fuel consumption caused by propulsion performance degradation.
The application analyses fouling conditions using sensor data collected at intervals of just a few minutes, coupled with historical daily voyage data. The company says that this method is even effective for older ships, making it possible to monitor the degradation of propulsion performance from the time of the ship’s delivery to the present day.
Docking periods are displayed in bands, colour-coded based on phytoplankton concentration and linked with 3D hull surface photos. Taking into account the type of paint used and the amount of speed deterioration, MOL says that it can analyse the causes of performance degradation and evaluate the impact of antifouling paints.
Based on the accumulated data and analysis results, optimal cleaning or selection of the best antifouling paint according to the ship’s operational profile can be carried out, reducing propulsion performance degradation. The 3D hull surface photos also allow for fouling areas and their sizes to be calculated, with this information then used to optimise the coating for each area.
The system will be utilised in the maintenance planning of approximately 500 ships operated by MOL, with a more advanced analysis model using AI already currently under development to further evolve the process of formulating optimal maintenance plans.
In related news, MOL has also signed a new agreement with Dryad Global for the provision of risk intelligence services, a deal that will see Dryad’s Secure Voyager Hub platform integrated into MOL’s global fleet operations.
Secure Voyager Hub will serve as a central component in MOL’s risk mitigation strategy, as a source of real-time risk intelligence, global security alerts, and regulatory updates. The shipping company will use the system to monitor and respond to emerging threats to improve safety in high-risk areas and ensure compliance with international maritime laws.
The software also offers analytics that can help vessel operators anticipate risks before they materialise, to make informed, data-driven decisions that protect both people and assets.
“MOL is committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and operational resilience across our fleet,” said Captain Mitsuhisa Tanimoto, Chief Safety & Quality Officer (CSQO) and Director General, Headquarters of Safety Operations at MOL.
“Partnering with Dryad Global allows us to enhance our ability to address evolving maritime threats. The Secure Voyager Hub will play a critical role in strengthening our operational safety and efficiency.”
