MOL conducts laser coating removal test

Furukawa Electric, in collaboration with MOL and MOL Drybulk, began developing the rust and coating removal system in 2021, using industrial laser technology.

The system aims to replace the traditional sandblasting method, which is widely used for rust and coating removal but produces significant waste and environmental debris. By using a laser blasting technique, the InfraLaser system minimises waste, dust and noise, reducing the environmental impact and helping safeguard workers health.

The companies aim to develop a system that not only removes rust and coatings but also optimises ship maintenance while reducing environmental burdens. The field trial, conducted in December 2024 on a vessel operated by MOL with paint manufactured by Kansai Paint Marine, demonstrated the effectiveness of the InfraLaser system in real-world conditions.

Feedback from Tsuneishi Shipbuilding, MOL and MOL Drybulk will help fine-tune the system’s design and specifications, with plans to automate the process further.