Optimarin wins milestone Ardmore order

The units will be fitted across 18 advanced chemical and product tankers with two Ex approved units fitted in each vessel, with delivery due to commence in February next year.

“We have ten vessels with alternative systems that were installed at newbuild shipyards and have encountered a series of operational problems,” said Gerry Docherty, director, Fleet Management, Ardmore.

“As such we conducted a lengthy review of technology for the new installations and that led us to Optimarin. USCG compliance was key, as we are always ready to operate in US waters, reliability was paramount and a strong, professional relationship was crucial.”

Long-term

Mr Docherty explained that this is not a one-off purchase, but a long-term partnership Ardmore is entering into whereby where it needs to be able to rely on its supplier’s expertise, technical understanding and ability to deliver on promises.

Ardmore’s decision follows on the heels of the announcement that USCG will be using Optimarin Ballast Systems (OBS) on its next generation Offshore Patrol Cutters.

Ardmore’s fleet ranges in size from 25,000 to 50,000 dwt. The firm transports petroleum products and chemicals worldwide with its modern, fuel-efficient mid-size tankers.

The OBS units, the first systems in the market to achieve full USCG approval, will be fitted on a rolling basis across a selection of strategic partner shipyards with whom Ardmore has existing relationships.

Once completed, the contract will take the number of Optimarin systems retrofitted beyond the 200 mark.