Vard orders Optimarin BWMS for Topaz vessels
Optimarin will deliver its UV-based Optimarin Ballast Systems (OBS) to the yards from the fourth quarter of 2016 to the end 2017. The Topaz vessels, measuring 123m long and 16.5m wide, will have capacity to carry high deck loads of up to 1,800 tonnes.
Vard has ordered 55 Optimarin systems for previous newbuilds. The latest vessels. Of Vard 9 21 design, will be built at two yards in Romania, Vard Baila and Vard Tulcea, as well as at Vard Vung Tau in Vietnam.
A spokesperson from Vard said: “Optimarin has developed advanced, environmentally friendly technology that, thanks to its modular nature, is simple to install on specialist vessels where space is limited. They understand our requirements and we understand their system is leading the market, in performance, compliance and predictability.”
Optimarin reported that the OBS is currently in the final stages of the USCG type approval programme and is already IMO compliant. The technology is certified by classification organisations, including DNV GL, Lloyd’s Register, Bureau Veritas, ClassNK, and the American Bureau of Shipping.
Optimarin has received orders for close to 500 OBS systems, with around 100 orders confirmed this year. Major recent contracts include a 46-vessel agreement with Carisbrooke Shipping, ten units each for Atlantis Tankers and the Royal Netherlands Navy, nine for Sinopacific Shipbuilding Group, three for Saga Shipbuilding and two for Solvang.
