HHI, HMM and Jotun sign hull cleaning MoU

Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) is joining forces with HMM and Jotun, to use the latter’s hull skating solutions (HSS) on a series of newbuilds. The agreement, signed on 8 December, will see Jotun HullSkater proactively inspect and clean vessel hulls during outfitting to ensure optimal performance and protection.

“HSS cleans hulls before biofouling takes hold,” said Geir Axel Oftedahl, business development director, Jotun. “Biofouling is a particular problem when vessels are idle for long periods, such as during outfitting, and this can cause major issues when trialling initial performance before delivery,” he added.

Launched earlier this year, HSS comprises the HullSkater, which adheres to vessels and removes biofouling, the SeaQuantum Skate antifouling, and proactive condition monitoring which uses a data algorithm tailored to individual vessel needs.

HHI is currently building a series of 16,000teu container ships for HMM. HSS will be deployed to ensure the ships meet environmental key performance indicators, maintaining clean hulls and coatings, providing optimal efficiency and limiting any potential release of biocides.

HSS’s robotic cleaning units are controlled by Jotun operatives via 4G connections. The company estimates that if all ships facing severe biofouling challenges adopted the proactive HSS approach, maritime CO2 emissions could be reduced by at least 40 million tonnes per year.