Cavotec launches next-generation automated vacuum mooring solution

Cavotec, a manufacturer of connection and electrification solutions for the maritime industry, has launched its next-generation automated vacuum mooring solution, called MoorMaster NxG.

The usual system of anchoring ships to the port using ropes and chains takes up to one hour. However, MoorMaster NxG will enable ships to anchor in as little as 30 seconds, which helps to cut down docking times.

Furthermore, hands-free and quick mooring enables ports to boost productivity while also reducing emissions and keeping employees safe.

Cavotec CEO Mikael Norin said: “As the inventors of vacuum mooring, we’ve used every minute of data from 20 years’ service to redesign MoorMaster from the ground up, to deliver faster, smarter installation, improved performance, continuous monitoring, and easier maintenance. All in a unit with a smaller more streamlined footprint and an aesthetically pleasing design.

“These are qualities that ASKO Maritime have seen as crucial when they are planning the introduction of the world’s first autonomous, zero-emissions vessels. We are very proud of having been selected as a key partner to ASKO.”

MoorMaster NxG will support ASKO Maritime, the shipping arm of Norway’s largest grocery chain, in its Oslo Fjord operations.

The completely electric ships will sail autonomously from port to port, replacing two million kilometres of truck transport and eliminating 5,000t of CO₂ every year.

ASKO Maritime CEO Kai Just Olsen said: “The MoorMaster system will save us huge amounts of energy and is a key enabler of autonomous operations. Since we won’t need to use the powerful bow and side thrusters in port, our electric vessels will use less energy and also extend the battery lifetime. The MoorMaster technology is perfect to complement our new ships – using modern technology for a futuristic fleet.”

Even with traditional vessels, MoorMaster can decrease the level of harmful emissions by as much as 98% during docking.

With the help of patented Active Control technology and proprietary software algorithm, MoorMaster NxG can eliminate vessel motion while also increasing system lifetime.

Furthermore, the mooring solution will increase loading / offloading productivity for ports.

Norin added: “In the next ten years, with the introduction of smart shipping technology, we could finally see the end of the slow and dangerous use of ropes and chains at dockside. Modern shipping industry needs a mooring solution that meets and exceeds its high expectations of productivity and reduced environmental footprint at docks around the world.”