Alfa Laval prepares for new G8 guidelines

The company’s PureBallast 3 series is one of three ranges approved by the USCG so far. The current approval includes systems with 100m3/h and 300m3/h UV reactors, and Alfa Laval reported that it expects approval for the 170m3/h and 600m3/h reactors soon.

“The delay between approvals is due to the evaluation of the mathematically modelled reactor scaling, which is a new process for the USCG,” a statement said. “Additional time is needed to review the already completed verification from the independent DNV GL lab.”

The next challenge on the horizon is compliance with the IMO’s amended G8 guidelines on testing and approval, completed by the Marine Environment Protection Committee last year. The company noted that, pending final tests for biological efficacy, a completed application for an updated G8 certificate is expected in the first half of 2017.

The company also underlined its readiness to help with installations as the in-force date for the BWM Convention, 8 September, nears. Anders Lindmark, general manager, business centre PureBallast, Alfa Laval, said that the supplier had gathered knowledge, project management experience and production muscle from more than 1,200 system sales, of which many are retrofitted.

“Alfa Laval can provide not only technology with the relevant type approvals, but also a complete range of vessel-adapted solutions with high efficiency and a well-developed service offering,” said Lindmark. “We are committed to supporting customers, whether in comparing ballast water treatment systems or in handling the many recommissioning and retrofit projects ahead.”