Optimarin CEO Tore Andersen (photo: Optmarin)

Optimarin has signed contracts with Wisby Tankers and Hoëgh Autoliners to install its market proven Optimarin Ballast System (OBS) on five existing vessels. The agreement, which comes six months after the Norwegian ballast water treatment (BWT) specialist became the first company to win USCG approval, will see Optimarin fitting units on three bitumen tankers for Wisby and two Hoëgh Autoliners RoRo ships.

With a fleet of 19 advanced vessels, Wisby Tankers utilises smaller tankers for European trades and its larger vessels, including the bitumen carriers, for worldwide routes. Hoëgh Autoliners, boasting over 50 advanced vessels, is well established in the global RoRo segment.

Bearing in mind the trading patterns of the two, Optimarin CEO Tore Andersen says complete global compliance was of paramount importance: “Any shipowner looking for optimal flexibility for their fleets must install BWT systems that are compliant with the very strictest regulations, which, in this case, are those of the USCG,” he states. “Our technology leads the way in compliance, as well as effective and environmentally friendly operation, and that is a key selling point for forward thinking shipowners. In addition, the modular nature of OBS makes it easy to retrofit on any vessels – even those where space is of an absolute premium, such as it is on these specialist ships. That was crucial for both Wisby and Hoëgh Autoliners, as it will be for all companies looking to ensure their ships comply with the IMO’s ratified Ballast Water Management convention.”

“The retrofitting of systems is a business area that is going to explode very soon. Industry sources expect over USD 45billion to be spent in the sector in the coming five years. And we, in conjunction with our global engineering partners, know it like no other,” adds Andersen.

The tasks, when completed later this year, will take the total number of Optimarin retrofits beyond the 110 mark. The three Wisby Tankers will see 500 m³ systems installed, while the Hoëgh Autoliners vessels will install capacities of 344 m³ and 500 m³. All systems utilise powerful 35-kW UV lamps to ensure the elimination of all potentially invasive waterborne organisms.

Optimarin works in partnership with Goltens, Zeppelin Power Systems and shipyards worldwide to install OBS on both existing vessels and newbuilds. The firm has so far received orders for over 500 systems, with more than 400 already delivered.

“The market is now fully aware that installing BWT systems is not an option, it’s a must,” Andersen adds. “To ensure that fleets sail safely, shipowners must identify technology that is compliant, trusted, easy to install, operate and maintain, and fits their individual needs. This is the time to move on this key decision, thus avoiding any potential installation bottlenecks. I’d urge companies to plan the best, safest and most compliant way forward for their vessels right now,” says Andersen.

Tags: Optimarin