Save fuel and reduce CO2 emissions

Damen Air Cavity System (DACS)

Air lubrication system for ships

Towards zero-emission shipping

Emission-free sailing is now more important than ever for seagoing vessels and inland shipping. With the introduction of the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII), it is Damen’s responsibility to not only help you comply with these regulations, but also to benefit from impressive savings of fuel consumption of more than 10%. Our air lubrication system for vessels can even achieve a fuel reduction of up to 15%.

Download DACS brochure

Damen’s air lubrication system for ships

The Damen Air Cavity System (DACS), our unique air lubrication system for vessels, originated from a cooperation between Damen and Delft University of Technology. Maintaining a thin layer of air over the flat bottom of a vessel’s hull, DACS achieves a significant reduction in water resistance, leading to increased efficiency and a reduction of fuel consumption and, therefore, emissions.

Compliant with CII and EU ETS tax reduction

Air lubrication system results in large fuel savings

The world is facing the consequences of climate change. The International Maritime Organization and the EU feel the responsibility to take action. Energy efficiency requirements, ratings and greenhouse gas taxes are the first measures that will be implemented in the short term. We understand this is a big concern for your operations. That’s why we want to provide the best possible solutions such as our air lubrication system for vessels.

Advantages of the Air lubrication system

Fuel Saving up to 15%
CII compliant
Reduced EU ETS taxes
Easy and quick Return On Investment

Savings of 7-12%

Seagoing ships

Fuel savings realised by Damen’s air lubrication system for vessels (known as DACS) for seagoing ships is significant, achieving reductions in the region of 7-12 %. Customers also benefit from the equivalent decrease in emissions – a win-win.

Savings up to 15%

Inland waterway vessels

Inland waterway ships have a large flat bottom and they sail at relatively low speeds, often in shallow water. Damen’s air lubrication system for ships can achieve very impressive fuel consumption reductions for inland barges. The fuel savings and equivalent emission reduction are between 8-15%.

Project update

First installation of DACS

Watch how MV Danita reduces fuel consumption with DACS

Watch the video

Development of DACS

Watch how we developed DACS together with TU Delft

Watch the video

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Your maritime solutions partner

Let’s reduce your GHG emissions together

Make your vessel more sustainable, reduce emissions, and save fuel. Damen offers a unique combination of expertise, proven technology, financial services, and installation support.

Make vessels more sustainable

You can save costs and, at the same time, make your vessel future-proof. With current IMO and EU regulations, it’s necessary to take action.

Reduce emissions

Damen provides best-in-class solutions to decarbonise your vessel and achieve lower emissions.

Vessel Emissions Reporting

Our emission report combines the vessels sensor data with the design knowledge, resulting in various automated reports, focused on emissions. Damen Triton provides you with valuable insights, creates awareness and stimulates to reduce emissions.