Tech Files: Offshore Safety Systems & Equipment
Safety of workers,structures, equipment and the environment are paramount in any offshore energy project. In the March/April print edition, Offshore Engineer took a look inside some notable newcomers.Wearable tech to boost drill floor safetyHaloGuard – Credit: TransoceanOffshore drilling contractor Transocean has recently deployed what it said was the offshore drilling industry’s first safety system that integrates a wearable locating device with drill floor equipment and machine stoppage controls.The system…
Poynting Releases Its Latest LTE Antennas
Poynting has recently released their latest Cellular LTE/5G Ready omni-directional antennas that can be used to improve your internet speed whether you are working in the city or require connectivity at sea.Poynting’s new OMNI-402 and the OMNI-600 MIMO omni antennas are based on the very popular marine antenna (OMNI-291), already used by boat owners worldwide. These antennas all share the same physical radiation elements within the antenna enclosure, which result in similar performance…
Yara Marine Has Big Expectations for 2019
Many shipowners are scrambling to comply with the tough, new the International Maritime Organization (IMO) fuel global sulfur limit of 0.50 percent m/m, which takes effect January 1, 2020.It is expected that after the rules swing into force, the light-heavy fuel price spread will likely spike and refining margins will be higher, particularly for complex refineries.Shipowners have to stay ahead of the game, said Yara Marine Technologies CEO Peter Strandberg: “Shipowners often get a bad rap of refusing to adopt new, innovative technologies and processes.
New Product: Running Line Dynamometer
A three-part consortium from the UK, USA and Sri Lanka, triangulated expertise to develop a new product for measuring tension on lines recently launched by Straightpoint, the Running Line Dynamometer (or TIMH), part of the manufacturer’s tension in motion range. David Ayling, director of Hampshire, UK-based Straightpoint, a manufacturer of force measurement, load monitoring and suspended weighing load cells, sought to fill a gap in the market for dockside, marine, offshore, towage and salvage applications.
Repair a Broken Pipe in Less than 60 Seconds
New from World Wide Metric is the Rapid Repair Clamp, a tool that helps swiftly repair pipe leaks or bursts to prevent costly damages in an emergency situation. Fast and easy to install, the Rapid Repair Clamp provides quick repairs for pipe leaks and bursts — especially useful when every second counts. The self-contained design allows for installation by one person in less than 60 seconds without the use of any tools. In fact, tests conducted by the Australian Government of Defense and the Royal Australian Navy found the Rapid Repair Clamp to be five times faster than standard repair clamps…
Effective Communication on the Water
Because communication on the water is serious business, David Clark Marine offers a number of system solutions tailored to meet specific needs. On board the City of Marco Island’s Firestorm 32 High Speed Aluminum Fireboat, made by MetalCraft Marine, first responders depend on their wireless communication gear every day. Surrounded by wind and engine noise, salt spray, choppy seas and all of the unexpected variables that come with operating in a harsh, unforgiving marine environment, communication is key to effective performance. Nowhere is that reality more evident than for firefighters and first responders everywhere, as they patrol and perform a myriad of public safety missions.
Axis Launches New Security Cameras
The new AXIS Q60-S PTZ Dome Network Cameras in nitrogen-pressurized stainless steel casings are suited for surveillance and remote monitoring applications in marine, mining, oil and gas environments, as well as food, medical and clean room manufacturing facilities. The rust-free cameras can resist the corrosive effect of sea water and cleaning chemicals, and withstand high-pressure steam cleaning. Pressurized nitrogen prevents internal condensation. Axis Communications launched three outdoor-ready…
Challenger Marine Condensing Unit
lanc & Associates, Inc. from the ground up, Challenger marine condensing units are designed to withstand the harshest conditions at sea while keeping work environments comfortable. Challenger units are built to prevent unit corrosion from salt water spray and sea air unlike conventional units. The “Challenger Difference” includes complete 16 gauge 304 grade stainless steel construction, dipped coil coating to prevent fin and tube corrosion, watertight electrical enclosure, compact footprint for easy installation and service…
Livorsi Introduces LED Navlights
Livorsi has developed a navigation light with powerful LED lighting within a rugged low-profile housing. These popular LED Navigation Lights are used by performance, work boat and government boats a like. LED lights outlast and out shine regular incandescent bulbs. LED lights use up to 90% less energy; these Livorsi nav lights only consume 1/10th of an amp at 14 volts. This means a longer life and less rigging time switching out lights. These lights are to be used on any vessel up to 65 feet and have a visibility of 2 nautical miles.
Webasto Launches FCF 24,000 Btu AC Unit
Self-Contained Air Conditioner. Webasto Product North America, Inc. (WPNA) has announced the arrival of the all-new Webasto FCF 24,000 Btu Air Conditioner, the only self-contained 115 Volt / 24,000 Btu air conditioner on the market today. The FCF 24,000 will be joining the already popular FCF (“Feel Cool Fast”) family of marine self-contained air conditioners. The HVAC experts at Webasto have engineered this product utilizing a compact design to it fit in small places on board.
New Anti-Pirate Water Cannon Video Released
Unifire AB of Sweden (PirateSafe.com) has released an exclusive new video of their Force 80™ Anti-Pirate Water Cannon System on their YouTube channel. The video shows Unifire's "Force 80" remote control water cannons (a.k.a. "monitors") in action on a large chemical tanker. These impressive water cannons are high-tech and made of acid-proof, marine grade Stainless Steel 316L. Unifire’s Anti-Pirate Water Cannon Systems are extremely powerful, yet non-lethal, devices for getting tough with pirates and hijackers.
NGSCO Upgrades CCTV for LNG Fleet
Kongsberg Maritime delivered CCTV systems for installation on National Gas Shipping Company’s (NGSCO) fleet of eight LNG carrier vessels in the Middle East. The project was secured in conjunction with Unique Systems FZE, Kongsberg Maritime’s local sales agent. Unique Systems FZE will be assisting in the installation and commissioning of the Kongsberg Maritime CCTV systems with two vessels refits having been completed already in April, another in July and the remaining five planned over the next few months.
IMTRA LED Courtesy Lights for MegaYachts
IMTRA, a leading manufacturer of advanced LED solutions, announced availability of its new Valencia and Majorca LED courtesy lights. The largest courtesy lights available from IMTRA, the Valencia and Majorca are designed to illuminate walkways and steps on large vessels and megayachts. The energy-saving LED fixtures feature an indirect LED light source that eliminates hot spots and glare, are surface-mounted for ultimate installation convenience, and have a smooth, low-profile design with curved surfaces to prevent them from catching on shoes and clothing. Crafted of certified AISI 316 marine grade stainless steel, the Valencia and Majorca are constructed to withstand the rigors of the marine environment faced by ocean-going vessels.
Livorse Navigation Lights
Livorse Navigational Lights are constructed of 316 marine grade stainless steel. Livorsi nav lights only consume 1/10th of an amp at 14 volts. These lights are to be used on any vessel up to 65 feet and have a visibility of two nautical miles. Designed to be flush mounted onto a vertical surface to allow the light pattern to be unobstructed from view. Port or starboard lights are available for 12 or 24 volt system. ABYC & USCG certified and NMMA accepted. Optional adapter plate available for White Industries & TH lights. Measures 3 1/4” W x 1 3/4” L X 7/8” D. www.livorsi.com
Ultra Anchor Gets ABS Superior Holding Certification
Quickline, an importer and distributor of quality marine gear and accessory products, announced that its Ultra Anchor meets the highest level of holding power as defined by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and has been awarded the certification of design assessment for Stainless Steel Superior Holding Power (SHP) for restricted service to a maximum anchor weight of 1500 kg (3306 lbs). SHP for restricted service is given to anchors with superior holding power of at least four times that of ordinary anchors. Using tests that conform to the ABS Anchor Sea Test Procedure performed in sand, mud and gravel at average sea depths of 32.5 feet (10 meters), the Ultra Anchor exceeds ABS requirements.
Increasing the Life Expectancy of Marine Equipment
Alan Robinson, managing director of Arc Energy Resources, discusses the benefits of weld overlay cladding to protect marine equipment and components from corrosion; and reviews the options available using corrosion resistant alloys. Paints and coatings are readily available to protect surfaces of a ship’s superstructure from saltwater in the atmosphere, but how can marine engineers ensure the long-term integrity of mechanical components and equipment such as pumps, valves and piping against aggressive corrosion caused by the sea itself, either below the surface or in areas subjected to significant amounts of saltwater spray. In order to maintain the efficient and reliable operation of marine equipment…
Thern Launches New Line of Products
Thern, Inc. is expanding their catalog with the introduction of the new Thern Silver Line of products. The Thern Silver Line is launching with the new imported stainless steel TSSBW Series hand winch. Available in three models offering lifting load capacities of 600, 900 and 1300 lbs, the new TSSBW Series hand winch is fabricated of 304 grade stainless steel and features solid steel machine cut gears, gear covers and automatic brakes. TSSBW Series hand winches are designed for light duty applications requiring corrosion resistance.
People & Company: New Outboard Water Jet Engine
The JetPac by Outboard Propulsion Systems, LLC, has been successfully introduced after five years of research and marine testing. The new, patented, outboard propulsion system mates a reliable automotive engine with a high performance, large diameter, waterjet in a single, stand-alone unit. The JetPac mounts conveniently to the transom of most small craft. The self-buoyant power units are currently available with either a 150 hp turbo-diesel or 275 hp V8 gasoline engine mated to its 250-mm (10-in.) water jet. The patented design places all components of the propulsion system, other than gauges, controls and fuel, behind the boat's transom.
OT Africa Line expands Reefer Service
In response to the rising demand for specialist containers on the steadily maturing West Africa trade, OT Africa Line (OTAL) has introduced a range of 40 ft. and 40 ft. high cube refrigerated containers (reefers). These containers are a new addition to the OTAL fleet which currently comprises of 20 ft. reefers, ventilated containers, dry vans, flatracks, collapsible flatracks and open tops and 40 ft. high cubes, dry vans, flatracks, collapsible flatracks, and open tops. The new reefers will be used to transport the growing number of perishable products imported and exported by West Africa every day. OTAL's new 40 ft. and 40 ft. high cube reefers are made from muffler grade stainless steel (MGSS) and have six lashing points on each side of the internal bottom rail.