Using air lubrication to decarbonize

Vertom Group, a specialist in short-sea shipping with a modern fleet of over 100 vessels, is at the forefront of maritime decarbonization. The company is actively exploring and implementing a range of energy-saving technologies, seeking to reduce its environmental footprint and drive industry progress. Air lubrication with OceanGlide is its latest step forward.

“Air lubrication offers a practical and promising way for Vertom to further reduce propulsion power demand, fuel consumption and emissions across our fleet,” says Thomas van Meerkerk, Manager Business Development & Innovation at Vertom Group. “Because Alfa Laval OceanGlide can be installed relatively easily on an existing vessel, it gives us the opportunity to test and evaluate its real-world impact while continuing to strengthen our decarbonization strategy.”

Energy savings made simple

The key to OceanGlide’s potential is an even and optimizable air layer, created with very high efficiency. This is achieved through fluidic technology, which regulates the air pressure and flow with precisely shaped channels – rather than moving parts. No sea chests or major hull modifications are needed.

Instead, OceanGlide uses a small number of air distribution bands to divide the flat bottom into sections. The bands have a low profile and create a thin, dynamic air layer that can be fully controlled. Since their fluidic oscillators need very little compressor power, the vessel maximizes its energy savings from the reduction in drag.

An ideal air lubrication setup for Vertom Joy

Of course, any new technology must yield a return on investment. To establish a clear business case and the best candidate vessel, Vertom Group collaborated closely with Alfa Laval and the OceanGlide team. Vertom Joy was selected for its shallow draft and its operational profile, which includes making long voyages across the Atlantic.

Along with the number of sailing days and the vessel’s annual fuel consumption, the team considered weather conditions along Vertom Joy’s route using insights from StormGeo, an Alfa Laval brand. Combined, these factors made Vertom Joy extremely suitable for air lubrication – and for OceanGlide in particular.

OceanGlide installation is now even easier

Because it requires no sea chests and only minimal hull penetrations, OceanGlide is practical and cost-effective to implement on an existing vessel like Vertom Joy. In Q3 2026, Vertom Group will install the latest OceanGlide version, which further simplifies the integration. Among other advances, the new generation features bolt-on air distribution bands that speed up installation and facilitate later inspection.

Gerrit Schram on the OceanGlide: “What really appeals to me about Alfa Laval is their entrepreneurial approach. As captain and co-owner of the Vertom Joy, I look forward to implementing this innovation and have full confidence in a swift and efficient installation.”

To learn more about air lubrication with Alfa Laval OceanGlide, please visit OceanGlide