Topaz Energy and Marine is to fit 15 specialist module carriers with chemical-free ultraviolet (UV) Optimarin Ballast Systems (OBS).
Due to the modular construction of the OBS, the systems are easily installed, particularly where space is limited. The technology is environmentally friendly thanks to its no-chemical, no biocide use and is instead based on pre-treatment filtration and UV to render marine organisms viruses and bacteria inactive, without affecting the normal operation of the ship. Ballast water is treated by UV both during ballasting and de-ballasting to ensure the dual UV effect.
The OBS is certified to operate in all salinities including freshwater, brackish and seawater and is currently in the final stages of seeking United States Coast Guard (USCG) type approval. It already holds International Maritime Organization (IMO) type approval.
The technology is also certified by classification organisations, including DNV GL, Lloyd’s Register, Bureau Veritas, ClassNK, and the American Bureau of Shipping.
The order has come from Vard shipyards who are to build the ships for Topaz Energy and Marine in shipyards Vard Baila and Vard Tulcea, Romania and Vard Vung Tau, Vietnam. Previously 55 Optimarin BWMS have been ordered for newbuilds from Vard.
Optimarin will deliver the systems to the yards from the fourth quarter of 2016 to the end of 2017.
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