- BAWAT claims that it is close to achieving full USCG approval for its pasteurisation-based ballast water management system (BWMS).
- The system has already passed three USCG land-based tests with results that demonstrate the total efficacy of the technological process.
- They have scheduled a shipboard test for April in the difficult waters of Port Klang and the Mekong River estuary.
- The years to come will be very busy times for retrofitting, especially in 2021/22, perfect for the BWMS.
BAWAT claims being close to achieving full USCG approval for its pasteurization-based ballast water management system, reports Tanker Operator.
What do the tests say?
Test results demonstrate the total efficacy of the simple, energy efficient and ‘150 year old’ technological process. BAWAT CEO, Kim Diederichsen, said “a wake-up call” is on its way, for both the segment and the broader shipping industry.
Are there any more tests?
BAWAT’s system – which is built from off the shelf components, uses no chemicals or filters, and works simply by heating ballast water. It has now passed all USCG land-based tests and has only one shipboard test left to complete.
This is scheduled for April in the difficult waters (high organism levels) of Port Klang, Malaysia and the Mekong River estuary, Vietnam. The system has already passed three tests here with “flying colors, eliminating all organisms,” Diederichsen claimed.
Positive and Effective Results
He said: “All of the tests so far – on board and onshore – have demonstrated rock solid results. By that I mean, not near the threshold of compliance, but total efficacy. This shows what we’ve known all along, that the tried and tested process of pasteurization is the best way to eliminate the potentially harmful invasive species carried in ballast water.”
About the System
BAWAT’s BWS uses waste heat produced by a vessel’s engine (giving a low OPEX and ensuring green credentials) to heat the water. The process works from as low as 64 deg C and there is zero post treatment holding time. With a one-pass solution the treatment can be undertaken during a vessel’s voyage, leaving crews to focus on more essential tasks in the ports.
Successful Implementation and Commercialising
“It really is that simple,” Diederichsen stresses. He says that they’ve been through the development phase, are sailing through testing and are now commercialising this revolutionary product. They’ve already signed a series of fleet agreements and have been shortlisted for many more. They are talking to shipowners who see this as a wake up call – ballast water compliance doesn’t have to be so difficult!
Perfect Timing
“With vessels now mandated to install ballast systems, we believe we’ve timed this just right. The years to come will be very busy times for retrofitting, especially in 2021/22, and we have the system and organization ready and raring to go,” he said.
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Source: Tanker Operator
