Optimarin USCG type approval imminent

With the BWT specialist meeting the coast guard’s stringent testing criteria for fresh, brackish and marine water, DNV GL has now submitted all final documentation on Optimarin’s behalf.

Tore Andersen, Optimarin CEO, said: “This has been Optimarin’s best year in business. On the back of our success with USCG testing we’ve seen orders steadily build, with contracts signed for over 100 of our Optimarin Ballast Systems (OBS) so far.”

“The ratification is, of course, wonderful news, but it’s the USCG approval that arguably provides our key point of difference.”

The news follows the long-awaited ratification of the IMO BWM Convention, with Finland’s signature pushing it past the 35% of combined global tonnage needed.

Optimarin has currently received orders for around 500 of its market proven systems, which utilise a combination of filtration and powerful 35kW UV lamps to treat ballast water without the need for chemicals.

Recent orders include ten units for Atlantis Tankers, 15 systems for Vard Group and two for Solvang ASA. As well as three for Saga Shipholding in addition to the 26 systems already installed on its fleet.

Mr Andersen explains: “USCG standards are more stringent than those of IMO and all vessels discharging ballast water in the US waters will be forced to fit systems that comply with their demanding CMFDA standard. This ensures the elimination of all potentially invasive species.”

“For shipowners with global fleets and a need for flexibility, the ability to operate in US waters is a must. So, for them, having a compliant system is a ticket to trade. Our established technology delivers just that, while our installation and retrofit expertise provides complete peace of mind,” he concluded.

Full approval expected in the last quarter of 2016.