Eco-friendly hull cleaning solution targets marine biofouling in the Indian Ocean

HullWiper Ltd has launched their first East African hull cleaning solution in partnership with underwater hull cleaning specialist, Immersub. The introduction of a safe and green hull cleaning solution supports the Mauritius Ports Authority ‘Green Port Concept’ for sustainable and eco-friendly port activities.

The agreement was signed under HullWiper’s leasing programme introduced in 2017 to work with partners around the world to offer ship owners and operators a cost-efficient, brush- and diver-free alternative to traditional hull cleaning methods that protects anti-fouling coating on vessel hulls and the ocean. Ship owners and operators benefit from a clean hull that improves vessel performance, fuel savings and lower CO2 emissions, without any extra downtime or harming the marine ecosystem.

HullWiper’s patented Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) system uses adjustable seawater jets under variable pressure to remove fouling, instead of brushes or abrasives, minimising the risk of damage to expensive anti-fouling coatings. No divers are used, so there is no risk to human life and cleaning can be conducted day or night, in most weather conditions, and whilst cargo operations are underway. Removed residues are collected by an onboard filter and deposited into dedicated drums onshore for locally-approved environmental disposal. The filter also reduces the risk of cross-pollination of waters with alien species.

HullWiper Managing Director Simon Doran says, “Mauritius’ strategic position on a busy international shipping lane for vessels sailing around South Africa’s Cape of Good Hope makes it a key location in the Indian Ocean. Its deep, clear waters also make it a great base from which HullWiper can provide a fast, efficient and eco-friendly hull cleaning solution.” He adds, “The environmental benefits of our system align well with Government initiatives to establish Mauritius as a leader in efforts to protect the ocean, underlined by the fact that the country is one of the 12 members in the IMO’s Glofouling Partnership project.”

“Traditional hull cleaning is no longer a sustainable option for ship owners. Shipping is changing fast and service providers must adapt to the new reality and the challenges it brings. Working with HullWiper, Immersub will offer a cost-effective solution, which is in line with Mauritius’ commitment to protect the environment,” says Samuel Rochecouste, Development & Project Manager for Immersub. “With reduced wear on expensive coatings, lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions, and fewer invasive species, Immersub is proud to be at the forefront of change in the Indian Ocean.”

Launched in Dubai in December 2013, HullWiper operates in ports around the world including Sweden, Singapore, Spain, Denmark, Norway, Egypt, Australia, Gibraltar, Panama and the UAE, as well as other key locations in the Middle East on an ad hoc basis and is available for lease where HullWiper does not have its own base.

To find out what out what HullWiper can do for you and your fleet, visit www.hullwiper.co

HullWiper partners with Immersub to launch eco-friendly hull cleaning solution in Mauritius