12 pelagic fishing newbuilds from the Karstensens Skibsvaerft shipyard in Skagen, Denmark have been fitted with NRG Marine’s Sonihull ultrasonic antifouling systems to protect their box coolers.
Each vessel has been supplied with two Sonihull8 units and one Sonihull Duo unit. A total of 18 independent ultrasonic transducers provide enough coverage to protect all the box cooler systems and pipework from marine biofouling without the need for any impressed current or dosing systems. The systems were supplied by Marine Supplies (International) Ltd. the Sonihull distributor in Scotland.
“The Sonihull systems have been specified because they are easier to install and have a lower initial outlay for owners, with no expensive regular maintenance required,” said Darren Rowlands, commercial director of NRG Marine Ltd.
He added: “Sonihull also integrates seamlessly with other onboard electronic systems, with no interference with Scanmar, Simrad and Marport equipment.”
Effective bio-fouling
Sonihull’s ultrasound anti-fouling systems provide effective bio-fouling without harmful biocides, metal compounds or microplastics.
They are designed to reduce maintenance costs, extend maintenance intervals and can facilitate quick mothballing and re-activation without dry-docking. There are also no penetrations or welding while fitting and everything is bonded to the dry-side of the RSW handling equipment or pipework. This removes the requirement for extra surveys, pressure testing and documentation.
The Karstensens-designed and built vessels currently using Sonihull anti-fouling systems include hull numbers 442 to 453. These are pelagic fishing vessels ranging from 49.55m to 79.75m in length, operated by a variety of owners based in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Scotland.
