ECOsubsea launched its Ultra High Efficiency Hull Cleaning Service (UHEHCS) in Singapore at the 5th Singapore-Norway Innovation Conference (SNIC).
ECOsubsea successfully introduced its new ROV after extensive testing in the Singapore anchorage since August has demonstrated its capabilities. Tests showed the ROV’s speed, operating 10 times faster than conventional cleaning methods.
The ROV enables hull cleaning during bunkering without prolonging port stays. ECOsubsea completed its debut commercial clean on the Odfjell tanker Bow Cedar in two hours.
Moreover, the company has chartered Eng Hup Shipping’s largest vessel, extensively modifying it with a purpose-built ROV Launch & Recovery System (LARS), operator station and a 75-cbm filtration unit. The company is also collaborating with waste-management firm Mencast to process collected biowaste.
Kenneth Lim, MPA Assistant Chief Executive, launched the ROV service at SNIC alongside Norwegian Ambassador Leif Trana. A formal contract signing with Eng Hup followed, with options to charter two additional vessels.
Odfjell Tankers’ Port Captain for Asia Pacific, Odd Arne Hansen, highlighted several benefits such as increased efficiency due to operational speed, ability to work in conditions unsafe for divers andreduced risk to personnel.
Our ROV operates in over 2 knots of current, where divers face extreme hazards at even 1 knot.
…said Tor Østervold, CEO, ECOsubsea.
Furthermore, benefits include increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and lower environmental impact through sediment collection and filtration.
With over 5,000 ships signed up for cleaning during the initial licensing period, ECOsubsea aims to establish a global network of ROVs.
