Biofouling management
Anti-fouling systems combat fouling by algae, barnacles and other organisms on vessel hulls and equipment. They improve efficiency, reduce maintenance and help preserve ecosystems by hindering the transport of potentially invasive species. Alfa Laval Sonihull technology is an innovative biofouling management solution based on ultrasound. Designed for longevity and ease of use, it provides a modern alternative to traditional biofouling management with coatings, chemicals and mechanical cleaning.
- Combat barnacles, algae and other forms of biofouling effectively – without releasing biocides or microplastics into the environment
- Substantially reduce fuel consumption by keeping hull, propellers and rudders clean at all times
- Reduce maintenance downtime and costs, eliminating mechanical cleaning of hard-to-reach areas
- Avoid disturbance to crews, vessel structures, sonar and electronic equipment thanks to inaudible ultrasound
- Install easily and without dry docking, as there are no through-hull fittings
Smarter biofouling management with ultrasonic technology
Biofouling presents a range of challenges on vessels, including added drag from accumulated organisms on the hull. The extra resistance can increase fuel consumption, leading to more greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and higher operating costs. Additionally, biofouling can form on other submerged surfaces, which affects the performance and lifetime of propellers, sensors, cooling systems and other equipment.
Alfa Laval Sonihull anti-fouling technology resolves these issues and more. Relying on ultrasound rather than biocidal coatings, cleaning chemicals or mechanical cleaning, it prevents biofouling simply and without potentially harmful substances.
Key applications in biofouling management
Propulsion systems
Ultrasonic anti-fouling technology protects propellers, thrusters and waterjets without the use of biocides. By improving efficiency, it reduces fuel consumption, lowers GHG emissions and contributes to a better Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating. It also means less frequent propeller polishing, which reduces maintenance costs and downtime.
Sea chests
By keeping sea chests clean, ultrasonic anti-fouling technology helps reduce the environmental impact of maritime operations. Without resorting to biocides, it reduces the need for cleaning-in-place (CIP) maintenance while minimizing the risk of transporting potentially invasive species. In addition, it saves up to 95% of the CAPEX and OPEX compared to impressed-current technology.
Strainers and pipework
Ultrasonic anti-fouling technology maintains optimal performance in critical engine cooling water systems, supporting reliable and efficient operations. Strainers and pipework can be kept clean with minimal maintenance and no chemical or mechanical cleaning.
Coolers and freshwater generators
Box coolers, plate coolers, shell-and-tube coolers and freshwater generators based on similar technologies can all benefit from ultrasonic anti-fouling, which prolongs their maintenance intervals. The need for chemical or mechanical cleaning is minimized, which promotes more reliable and efficient operations.
Hulls
By preventing bioaccumulation on the hull, ultrasonic anti-fouling reduces reliance on coatings and improves hydrodynamic efficiency in a more sustainable way. The result is less fuel consumption, which lowers operating costs, reduces emissions and contributes to an improved Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) rating.