Coast Guard Approves Wärtsilä BWMS
The technology group Wärtsilä’s Aquarius EC Ballast Water Management System (BWMS) has been granted Type Approval by the United States Coastguard (USCG) authorities.
This approval verifies that the product has met the specified regulatory, technical, and safety requirements, and represents an endorsement of its design and efficiency principles.
As part of the approval process, the Aquarius EC (Electro-Chlorination) system’s technology underwent an extensive land and sea test programme, during which it delivered exceptional performance.
“We are naturally delighted that following a stringent review and investigation process, the USCG has granted Type Approval. This follows similar approval given by the IMO in 2013. Since Wärtsilä offers both EC and UV (Ultra-Violet) technologies, we are uniquely able to provide impartial advice to owners and operators regarding the most suitable system for their particular needs,” says Timo Koponen, Vice President, Processing Solutions, Wärtsilä Marine Solutions.
The Aquarius EC is capable of treating ballast water volumes from 250m3/hour to 4000m3/hour. It utilises a simple and efficient two-stage process, comprising both filtration and an electrolysis unit. The resulting neutralisation effectiveness is continuously monitored to ensure full compliance with MARPOL discharge regulations.
The Wärtsilä Aquarius UV system, the company’s alternative technology, has completed all USCG testing requirements, and Type Approval certification is expected to be granted before the end of this year.
