HullWiper launches in South Korea

HullWiper’s eco-friendly system uses a pair of remotely operated vehicles (ROV) to remove and collect all debris from hulls without releasing it into the sea.

HullWiper Korea has also designed and developed the Esther, an eco-friendly vessel to transport the two ROV units to ports in Busan, Ulsan, Pohang, Masan, Jinhae, Yeosu and Gwangyang. The combination of the fast-moving Esther and the two ROVs enable a Cape Size vessel’s hull to be cleaned within eight hours, rather than the five days needed for traditional methods.

“Time is money for shipping lines,” said Byungsoo Yoon, HullWiper Korea managing director. “The launch of our operations will correct decreased voyage speed and reduce high fuel costs due to fouled hulls for vessels calling in Korea. It will also enhance the green corporate image for ship owners, operators and shipping lines,” he added.

The system uses adjustable seawater jets as the cleaning medium instead of brushes or abrasives, to minimise the risk of damaging coatings. No divers are used, reducing risk to human life, and allowing cleaning to be conducted day or night, in most weather conditions and while cargo operations are underway.

To date, HullWiper has performed hull cleans for more than 1,400 vessels worldwide.