Biofouling control service "FALCONs" certified for Innovation Endorsement by ClassNK

21 May 2025

MITSUI E&S Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo, President and CEO: Takeyuki Takahashi, hereinafter "MITSUI E&S") new biofouling control service "FALCONs" has been certified for Innovation Endorsement*1 for Products & Solutions (P&S) by ClassNK.

4 elemental technologies that have been certified for IE for P&S are as follows.

1. Quantification of fuel saving and CO2 reduction specifically by hull cleaning
By creating a model that integrates data from 'Fouling Evaluation' and 'Propulsion Performance Analysis', the fuel consumption in cases with and without hull cleaning can be compared, enabling quantification of the amount of fuel and CO2 saved through hull cleaning.

2. Patternization of differences in fuel reduction effects of cleaning variations
By using the model that integrates 'Fouling Evaluation' and 'Propulsion Performance Analysis', fuel efficiency predictions are suggested in four patterns: propeller cleaning, hull cleaning, both cleaning, and no cleaning. This enables users to quantitatively determine the appropriate timing and area for cleaning.

3. Tracking and predicting the progress of biofouling through AI-powered quantitative evaluation
Underwater inspection images of the propeller and hull are evaluated by AI, classified into five fouling scales, and compared at fixed points. This provides a quantitative view of biofouling conditions and progression shown in the different color coding and graphing, as well as future predictions.

4. Propulsion Performance Analysis using only engine data and operational data without external disturbances
Engine data (main engine RPM, engine room temperature, turbocharger RPM, scavenging pressure) and operational data (position, water depth, heading, vessel speed, and rudder angle based on VDR) are analyzed for each voyage, and propulsion performance results with disturbances removed are calculated. Comparing the results for each voyage enables the quantification of resistance increase due to biofouling using the fuel consumption.


Image by Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.

FALCONs is a service that integrates 'Fouling Evaluation' based on AI assessment of underwater inspection images with 'Propulsion Performance Analysis' based on engine operation data and voyage record data. FALCONs makes it possible to quantitatively understand and predict the deterioration of propulsion performance due to biofouling and the improvement due to cleaning. Thus, MITSUI E&S provides 'the background data to determine effective timing and area of cleaning' and 'quantitative reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission' to shipping operators who previously relied on other methods including experience and intuition for cleaning decisions and who want to quantitatively evaluate the cleaning effect.

MITSUI E&S will work to expand the service of "FALCONs" as a highly reliable solution, with a view to obtaining various certifications and statements of fact from ClassNK, as well as other certifications related to CO₂ reduction.

*1) Innovation Endorsement (IE) This is a service provided by ClassNK that supports innovative initiatives through third-party certification, with the aim of contributing to environmental protection, improved safety, and improved working conditions at sea.


Image by Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.

(MES) Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. press release