NRG Marine announced that the latest version of their ultrasonic pipework cleaning tool has been fitted to three LPG tankers operated by Norbulk Shipping, which has been something of a pioneer when it comes to new technology.
The three 44,000 dwt double-bottomed LPG tankers, Hassi Messaoud 2, Alrar and Rhourd Enouss have Sonihull8 ultrasonic transducers fitted to raw seawater pipework.
Ultrasonic transducers produce bursts of ultrasonic energy in multiple frequencies creating a pattern of alternating positive and negative pressure. The negative pressure forms microscopic bubbles which are imploded by the positive pressure.
The result is a micro jet action that creates a cleaning effect in the pipework. This allows pipework to operate more efficiently with significant savings in opex.
Norbulk Shipping technical superintendent Sergejs Bondarevs said “We have already increased the back-flushing intervals on our central coolers and we are looking forward to rolling out similar savings across the fleet.”
The NRG Sonihull8 system does not require any drilling or specialist current-isolation when installed. There are also no sacrificial anodes to replace and so the resulting poisonous metallic compounds are not released back into the sea water.
“Owners and operators can expect a reduction in capex and lifetime maintenance costs of up to 95% when compared to impressed current systems,” said NRG Marine commercial director Darren Rowlands.
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