French LNG storage technology company GTT Group said its smart shipping unit Ascenz Marorka had been selected to provide advanced weather routing solutions for Monaco-based Greek company Latsco Shipping with a fleet of 36 vessels.
Latsco’s fleet mainly comprises chemical and liquefied petroleum gas vessels.
The accord will equip eight Latsco vessels with the Ascenz Marorka monitoring after a comprehensive market analysis and an extensive one-year testing phase on two of Latsco’s ships.
Optimal routes
Ascenz Marorka explained that the weather routing solution defines optimal shipping routes by integrating multiple operational, economic and environmental variables, while taking into account a wide range of operational and regulatory constraints.
This solution is compatible with various vessel types and propulsion systems, regardless of the fuel source chosen.
Latsco already uses the Ascenz Marorka Sloshield and Smart Shipping solutions to monitor in real time sloshing activity inside LNG cargo tanks by fixed motion sensors as well as boil-off performance of the containment system during operations.
Ascenz Marorka’s platform allows technical operators to monitor the performance of various systems such as the cargo or reliquefaction plants.
It also provides guidance to avoid roll-over when loading LNG of different densities
“We are honoured by the trust that Latsco places in us to support them in their journey towards digitalisation,” said Anouar Kiassi, Managing Director of Ascenz Marorka.
“We are delighted to work hand in hand with a ship-owner who values technology and innovation to achieve major decarbonisation goals,” he added.
Assessment
George Mavrogenis, Marine Manager of Latsco, said the Ascenz Marorka platform's features were thoroughly assessed for deliverables and ease of application.
“We evaluated its operational and safety navigation aspects, confirming it integrates seamlessly into daily practices, ensuring both efficiency and safety in our maritime operations” he stated.
Iasonas Zacharioudakis, Operational Technology and Energy Manager of Latsco, said he was impressed with the structured and thorough evaluation process, developed with Ascenz Marorka, to test new technologies.
“This process aimed to assess accurately the capabilities of this promising technology, considering the significant challenges in modelling ship navigation,” Zacharioudakis explained.
“Our goal is to enhance sustainability, improve environmental operations and optimise our environmental footprint,” he added.
