This new test method and rig allows to measure any paint and comparison studies have showed good correlation with full-scale results. That is why DNV´s new requirements recognize Aker Arctic test procedure as the method to measure friction between paint and ice. The whole set of requirements can be found on DNV´s website.
About 20-30% of vessels resistance in ice comes from friction between the hull and ice. Difference of high- and low-friction coatings have a significant influence on fuel consumption and speed of the vessel, and in difficult ice conditions even vessels gets stuck due to high friction.