12 Karstensens Newbuilds fitted with Sonihull Protection
The latest pelagic fishing newbuilds from the world-renowned Karstensens Skibsvaerft A/S shipyard in Skagen, Denmark have all been fitted with Sonihull ultrasonic anti-fouling systems to protect their box coolers.
Each of the 12 vessels has been specified with two Sonihull8 and one Sonihull Duo units. With a total of 18 independent ultrasonic transducers, there’s enough coverage to protect the box cooler systems and pipework from marine biofouling without the need for any impressed current or dosing systems.
The Sonihull systems were specified because they are easier to install and have a lower initial outlay for owners, with no expensive regular maintenance required. Sonihull also integrates seamlessly with other onboard electronic systems,with no interference with Scanmar, Simrad and Marport fish-finding equipment.
Sonihull’s ultrasound anti-fouling systems demonstrate an unmatched combination of qualities for protecting box coolers against the build-up of marine growth. They provided effective bio-fouling without the poisonous environmental legacy of biocides, metal compounds or microplastics.
They are also easy to install and can reduce lifetime costs by up to 50% compared to similar impressed-current anti-fouling systems in this size of fishing vessel. They will also reduce maintenance costs, extend maintenance intervals and can facilitate quick mothballing and re-activation without dry-docking.
March 2019 – Image courtesy of Karstensens Skibsvaerft A!S
There are also no penetrations or welding while fitting and everything is bonded to the dry-side of the RSW handling equipment or pipework, this removes the requirement for extra surveys, pressure testing and documentation.
The Karstensens-designed and built vessels currently using Sonihull anti-fouling systems include hull numbers 442 to 453. These are pelagic fishing vessels ranging from 49.55m to 79.75 in length, operated by a variety of owners based in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Scotland.