Hopper Dredger – Zero Downtime

Ifestos Marine works is part of the EDT Offshore Group, a horizontally-integrated specialist service provider in the offshore oil and gas sector, fantastically positioned in the heart of the Eastern Mediterranean.

Having sold and installed a Sonihull8 ultrasonic antifouling system on a 3,205 DWT Hopper Dredger, Ifestos signed-on as Sonihull’s distributor for Cyprus, Egypt, Israel and Lebanon.

The Sonihull system delivers an unmatched combination of qualities, using the power of ultrasound to provide effective bio-fouling control in raw seawater (RSW) handling equipment, without the poisonous environmental legacy of biocides, metal compounds or microplastics.

The system is easy to install, as the ultrasound transducers are bonded to the dry-side of the RSW equipment or pipework being protected. This removes the need for any drilling or welding, and the requirement for extra pressure-testing and Classification surveys.

With simple installation and no expensive anodes to replace, a Sonihull system can reduce lifecycle capital and MRO costs by up to 95% compared to similar impressed-current antifouling systems. Sonihull will reduce maintenance costs, extend maintenance intervals and can faciliate quick mothballing and re-activation without the need to drydock.

“Traditionally, to refurbish the NRF box coolers and replenish the impressed-current antifouling system, the vessel would have to be taken out of service and drydocked in order to drain the whole cooling system and complete the repairs. But with NRG’s solution, none of this is necessary,” explains Creon Tchacos, Director of Ifestos Marine Works.

“With the Sonihull system there is no cutting or welding required in the seachests, so it can be installed while the vessel is alongside or even when operating out at sea. Which represents a huge cost-saving for the Owner.”