Commercial Ultrasonic Antifouling Solutions
Why Ultrasonic Matters
Even minor biological growth on a ship's hull, known as microfouling, can severely impact its efficiency. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) reports that a slime layer less than 1 millimeter thick can increase drag by up to 25%. This seemingly innocuous slime, a complex biofilm, negatively affects hydrodynamic performance, demanding more energy to maintain speed.
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The problem escalates dramatically with macrofouling, the attachment of larger organisms like barnacles and mussels. The IMO indicates that up to 40% of vessels have 20% or more of their hull covered in hard, macrofouling, a condition that can significantly increase drag by over 100%. This massive increase in resistance disproportionately raises fuel consumption, leading to higher operational costs and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Beyond fuel inefficiency, biofouling can accelerate hull corrosion, complicate maintenance, and even facilitate the spread of invasive species. The cumulative effect of biofouling underscores the critical need for effective antifouling strategies within the maritime industry. These strategies are essential for both economic viability and environmental sustainability.
Savings with Ultrasonic Antifouling
179m bulk tanker saves over 35,000t of fuel over a 5-year period, by maintaining a clean hull and a propulsion system protected by ultrasonic.*
*According to a case study and report done by the Glofouling Partnership and Global Industry Alliance (GIA)
6-month ROI with Echo Tech Ultrasonic
Fuel Savings
If a vessel burns 1.5 tons of fuel per hour for 16 hours, at a price of $624/t, that's $15k/day in fuel costs.
If you were to implement complete ultrasonic protection of the hull and propulsion system and only reduce fuel consumption by 2.5% (data suggests savings of 15% or more), it's ONLY a 6-month ROI.
Echo Tech Ultrasonic Antifouling Technology
Ultrasonic Transducers
Echo Tech uses strategically placed transducers that emit high-frequency sound waves to prevent the growth of marine organisms.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
By keeping your vessel free of biofouling, Echo Tech's technology significantly improves fuel efficiency.
Continuous Protection
The ultrasonic waves are constantly emitted, providing continuous protection against biofouling growth, ensuring your vessel's performance remains optimal.
Reduced Maintenance
With Echo Tech's antifouling technology, the life of your bottom paint is significantly increased, reducing the time and costs associated with hull cleaning and maintenance, saving you time and money.
Stop Invasive Aquatic Species Transfer
Known to be the single greatest contributor to the loss of marine biodiversity, invasive aquatic species transfer is significantly reduced by using Echo Tech's ultrasonic antifouling technology.
Meet Environmental Regulations
Exceed EEXI Standards
Meet CII targets
PRO SERIES
For Commercial & Industrial Applications
Echo Tech Pro systems protect hulls, sea chests, strainers, keel coolers, box coolers, and more. When using Echo Tech Pro systems, maritime operators enjoy the benefits of reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, improved performance, extended service intervals, and increased asset lifespan.
