IMR picks Optimarin BWT system for its new RV Dr Fridtjof Nansen
The Institute of Marine Research (IMR) has selected Optimarin’s market proven ballast water treatment (BWT) system for its new flagship Dr Fridtjof Nansen, the Company said on Tuesday.
The system, currently installed on 180 vessels worldwide, will ensure the NOK 450million (USD 73million) newbuild inactivates marine organisms transported in its ballast tanks, safeguarding the ecosystems examined on its high-profile scientific assignments.
Owned by the Norwegian Foreign Aid Directorate (Norad) and operated by the Bergen-headquartered IMR (Havforskningsinstituttet), the research vessel is a ST-369 design currently under construction at the Astilleros Gondan shipyard in Spain. Upon completion in 2016 it will undertake assignments in developing countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, assisting in the sustainable management of natural resources.
Optimarin’s technology was recommended to IMR by the yard, as explained by Mr. Ceferino Ron, Factory Director, Astilleros Gondan: “The Dr Fridtjof Nansen will be an important vessel with a crucial mission. It was essential that we selected a proven BWT solution with a track record of reliability, efficiency and the successful elimination of all potentially invasive marine organisms. We want all our newbuilds to conform with requirements and operate in accordance to the highest standards, and we’re happy to have found a BWT supplier that shares those same values.”
Optimarin’s system, which utilises filtration and high doses of UV irradiation to inactivate organisms, is an environmentally friendly solution with full IMO approval, USCG AMS acceptance, and certification through DNV GL, BV, RMRS and CCS. The company’s leading market position is built on a history of expertise – Optimarin was the world’s first firm to install a marine BWT system, on the Regal Princess in 2000 – with IMR’s contract adding to the over 120 units currently in the firm’s orderbook.
The newbuild Dr Fridtjof Nansen will replace a current vessel, built in 1993, with the same name. It will boast a total of seven laboratories and 32 cabins (sleeping up to 45 people), with a length of 74.5m and breadth of 17.4m. Key operational tasks will include assignments relating to the EAF (Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries) and the Nansen programme for the FAO (UN Food and Agriculture Organisation).
Dr Fridtjof Nansen was an oceanographer globally renowned for his crossing of Greenland and the ‘Fram’ expedition. Nansen, who died in 1930, was also a founder of ICES (the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea) and a celebrated recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
