Return of the Electric Boat
In the 1880s it was possible to cruise your way around London by an electric ferry on the River Thames. At its height, the river carried 13 launches, each measuring 28 ft. long. They glided along at five knots and had a range of about 60 miles. Each launch carried one ton of storage batteries hidden underneath the passenger seats. Charging stations were even placed along the river so these electric launches could continue up and down unhindered. An article in Scientific American…
Innovation Driven by Demand - Oil Spill Response
Oil spill equipment manufacturer Elastec brings new and sophisticated tools to a market in need of better, faster, more efficient and environmentally sound tactics. Just what the doctor ordered. Elastec/American Marine may well be the largest manufacturer of oil spill and environmental equipment in North America, but it is technology and innovation that are quickly propelling the firm to the top of the markets. With six U.S. locations, three foreign offices and a network of global dealers, ISO 9001 certified-Elastec produces a range of products that includes oil spill equipment (skimmers, containment boom, fire boom, dispersant application equipment), incinerators, vacuum systems, portable tanks, pumps and a dozen more entries.
The Allure of Power
Continuity is a valuable asset in the marine field, especially so in relation to the most essential products pivotal to vessel design and operation. The diesel engine producers' adeptness at enhancing existing, successful designs at intervals through power and performance upgradings is a prime example of the development potential built into ships' machinery, making for longevity of the series involved. The ensuing continuity of the product line offers practical benefits to the client market and also to the licensors and manufacturers, given the huge investment costs entailed in developing entirely new engines and putting the requisite tooling in place.
