MOL Techno-Trade (PBCF)

MOL Techno-Trade, Ltd. is a Tokyo-based subsidiary of Japanese shipowner Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL). It markets PBCF (Propeller Boss Cap Fins), an energy-saving device that MOL developed in 1987. According to the input data, it was co-developed with Mikado Propeller and West Japan Fluid Engineering.

PBCF replaces the standard propeller cap with a cap carrying small fins. The fins break up the hub vortex behind the propeller and recover energy that would otherwise be lost. MOL Techno-Trade quotes fuel and CO2 savings of about 3–5%. The device needs no maintenance, can be fitted to newbuilds or retrofitted, and suits all merchant ship types. The company says PBCF has been installed on more than 4,500 vessels worldwide and also reduces underwater radiated noise by about 5 dB in the 100–1,000 Hz band.

An Improved PBCF with refined fin geometry was launched in May 2017 and had been fitted to more than 1,200 vessels by March 2025. MOL Techno-Trade also documents combined savings when PBCF is used with a Schneekluth duct (about 8%), pre-swirl fins (6–8%) or rudder fins.