Flettner Rotors Wind Engine Control by SELMA Ship Electric Marine Control is an advanced Flettner rotors wind engine control system that applies the Magnus Effect to support wind-assisted propulsion and ship decarbonization. Designed with dedicated VFD Variable Frequency Drives, automation software, and control hardware, the system ensures safe and efficient rotor operation, delivering reliable wind propulsion control and optimized performance for modern vessels.
SELMA proudly contributed to the world’s first bulk carrier equipped with Flettner rotors, the MV Afros, a landmark project led by Anemoi Marine Technologies. For this innovative installation, SELMA designed and delivered the complete VFD hardware, software, and control system, enabling efficient application of the Magnus effect propulsion Flettner rotors. The MV Afros demonstrated the potential of wind-assisted propulsion VFD control systems to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, proving SELMA’s capability to integrate advanced marine wind engine control with VFD into real ship operations. This pioneering project set the foundation for the most reliable Flettner rotor automation and wind propulsion control solutions in the industry.
ANEMOI Flettner Rotors System is operating on board the
World’s First “Wind Powered Rotor Bulk Carrier” MV Afros built in 2018
(LR Awarded as ship of the year)
The Flettner rotors take advantage of the Magnus aerodynamic effect through their rotation. The vertical cylinders (Fleet rotors) are installed on the deck of the ship and are rotated by electric motors. Through their rotation in the air flow, the aerodynamic Magnus effect is created.
The result is that the Flettner rotors literally function as “mechanical sails”, thus assisting the propulsion of the ship.
FLETTNER ROTORS WIND ENGINE CONTROL