Ultrasonic anti-fouling system gains ATEX certification
Written by Marine Log StaffCoventry, U.K., headquartered NRG Marine Limited reports that its Sonihull ultrasonic anti-fouling system, has just been certified to be in compliance with the EU’s 94/9/EC ATEX directive, the regulation covering equipment intended for use in explosive atmospheres.
NRG Marine says that, with this approval, Sonihull becomes the first ultrasonic anti-fouling system to be awarded ATEX certification, making it an ideal choice for LNG carriers, oil rigs, FPSOs, and other petrochemical applications calling for biocide-free anti-fouling solutions in hazardous areas.
“Sonihull is ideal for protecting the raw seawater [RSW] cooling-systems on LNG vaporizers,” explains Dominic Findlow, Technical Director of NRG Marine Limited. “Our transducers can be fitted in-situ to the dry side of the RSW handling equipment and pipework without the drilling or welding associated with impressed-current or dosing systems. Once installed, there’s no regular maintenance to replace costly anodes.”
Sonihull’s ultrasound transducers have been approved for use in Zone 0 and the control box has been certified for use in Zone 1 and Zone 2 applications, if being fitted in a separate cabinet.
The system is also easy to install, as the ultrasound transducers are bonded to the dry-side of the RSW handling equipment or pipework. This removes the need for any drilling or welding, and the requirement for extra classification surveys, pressure-testing and documentation.
NRG Marine Limited says that, with simple installation and no anodes to replace, a Sonihull system can reduce capital and MRO costs by up to 95% compared to similar impressed-current anti-fouling systems.