Green Corridors: A Route to Decarbonised Shipping

Wednesday, 26th July 2023

Because the vessels used to transport essential goods run on high-carbon fossil fuels, and so many of them are required to cater to global demand, the shipping industry contributes to a significant percentage of CO2 emissions. And this percentage will only rise as the shipping industry grows, hence the importance of decarbonised shipping.

So, as it stands, the global warming reduction targets so many countries promised to help achieve in the Paris Agreement are taking a backseat — and the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) plan to cut annual greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by at least half by 2050 seem like a distant dream.

But things reached a turning point during the COP26 summit last year.

At this international climate conference, 22 countries, including the UK, signed up to the Clydebank Declaration. This contract saw signatories pledge to establish zero-emission shipping routes known as green corridors (ensuring at least six are set up by 2025) to reduce the shipping industry’s carbon footprint.

As we work towards this much-needed yet highly ambitious target, we look at how developing green corridors will help decarbonise the shipping industry —â€¯and the obstacles standing in their way…

PROVIDING ECO-FRIENDLY PASSAGEWAYS

Green corridors are specific trade routes between major port hubs where every effort has been made to minimise the carbon emissions of the shipping operations that pass through them.

Any technology, programme or resource could be deployed within green corridors so long as it helps promote zero-carbon shipping. For instance, green corridors might necessitate the use of low-carbon alternatives to traditional fuels like biodiesel and methanol — or encourage the use of route-optimising systems that use artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline shipping journeys and minimise wasted fuel.

Take the project that Schneider Electric is acting as a partner on as an example. The French multinational is helping to deliver the UK’s first green corridor between Dover, UK, and Calais and Dunkirk in France — a channel that accounts for more than a third of British ferry traffic. The corridor will provide electrical power to berthed vessels, also known as shore power.

Not only do green corridors like this have the potential to decarbonise shipping operations between the two ports where they are installed, but they can also have a hugely positive ripple effect on the entire shipping industry.

The development of green corridors will mobilise demand for renewable fuels and accelerate investment in the solutions that will take the shipping industry closer to net zero. Green corridors will also show countries which solutions are scalable and, if executed successfully, give other nations the confidence to implement them — promoting lower-emission shipping operations across the globe.

However, we are not quite ready for green corridors to start traversing our seas.

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES TO DEVELOPMENT

There are various considerations that need addressing before we reach the goals of the Clydebank Declaration.

Currently, zero-emission fuels are not a cost-competitive option. So, if the shipping industry is to make the transition away from fossil fuels and green corridors are to emerge, we need substantial incentives and feed-in tariffs that ensure it is financially viable to switch to low-carbon fuels.

The sector also lacks the means to supply ships with adequate amounts of zero-carbon fuels. For example, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency, less than 0.2 megatons of renewable methanol is produced per year. As such, countries need to invest in renewable fuels to limit CO2 emissions and enable the development of green corridors.

Data processing can also be cumbersome and expensive, which limits the development of route-optimising capabilities that are so crucial to the introduction of green corridors. To resolve this issue, countries must invest in low-cost devices like data buoys, which gather and transmit critical information for use in journey planning.

And, of course, to prevent collisions between passing vehicles between the busy ports where green corridors will be established, the right marine aids to navigation (AtoN) must be deployed. Critical solutions like navigation buoys and lights help mark safe lines of passage to ensure ships do not veer too close to obstructions and help them navigate port entrances and exits safely. Equally, the information collected from data buoys can help ships plan more efficient routes, use less fuel and bring us closer to a world with ample green corridors.

Hydrosphere boasts a selection of marine AtoN for use in green corridors. Call +44 (0)1420 520374 or email sales@hydrosphere.co.uk for more information.

Associated Listing:

Hydrosphere UK Ltd

Star International joins forces with Tarmac Marine

Wednesday, 12th July 2023

Star International has partnered with Tarmac Marine to provide the annual maintenance of the fire, safety, and life-saving equipment, including the annual hire of the liferafts.

The five-year contract covers four suction dredgers: MV City of Westminster, MV City of London, MV City of Chichester, and MV City of Cardiff.

The news comes as the Merseyside-based specialist marine and offshore service supplier announced that it will be opening a new 5000 sqft state-of-the-art facility in Hillington, Glasgow. The branch is strategically located the new branch close to the motorway network to cover the whole of Scotland.

The new branch will have a designated, experienced firefighting equipment (FFE) service team, using the purpose-built workshop capable of hydro-testing and refilling all suppression gases, as well as maintaining and repairing all FFE equipment including fire extinguishers, breathing apparatus, and EEBD (emergency escape breathing devices).

The Glasgow team will also have the capability to service LSA equipment including, lifejackets, immersion suits, and rescue boats.

Managing Director Matthew Ball said: “We’re delighted to work alongside Tarmac Marine.

“As we continue to grow and expand our UK operations, more developments are planned before the end of the year. We will be sharing details of these in coming months.”

Star International’s headquarters are in Wirral, Merseyside, and also has branches in Southampton and Falmouth.

Associated Listing:

Tyne Clean Energy Park Marine Works

Wednesday, 12th July 2023

Southbay is currently responsible for both upgrading and extending the existing Tyne Bulk Terminal within the Port of Tyne.

The project is being undertaken to enable the berthing and mooring of high-capacity vessels, which will be used to service the offshore renewable energy sector. Originally constructed for the handling of coal, the loading capacity of the berth will be upgraded from 10t/m2 to 20tm/2, with the operational reach of existing quayside craneage also to be increased.

The project involves the removal of redundant structures, installation of 864mm diameter tubular piles, construction of a new reinforced concrete deck slab, and the installation of ladders, bollards and fendering.

The upgraded quayside will form part of the Tyne Clean Energy Park, which is one of the most versatile clean energy sites within the UK, providing development land with direct marine access

Associated Listing:

PDL Marine Ltd Secure Contract With National Trust

Wednesday, 12th July 2023

PDL Marine and the National Trust are pleased to announce the signing of a contract to design and build a new 12m Landing craft for their site at Orford Ness in Suffolk.

The project will enable the National Trust to operate transportation services to the Ness from the main landing point at Orford slipway.

The remote shingle spit on the Suffolk Coast is currently accessed by a ferry from Orford quay which, at low tide, can mean walking down a number of steep and often slippery steps. However, the new craft will allow wheelchair users, families with buggies or those unable to use steps, step free access to the Ness.

The vessel is designed to carry a vehicle and trailer up to 4 tons or 12 passengers per crossing and will be coded to MCA category 3. The landing craft is fitted with a pair of OXE 150Hp diesel outboards and internal fuel tanks and the wheelhouse can accommodate a helm and two crew, it is also fitted with a bow thruster to assist in the strong current that can flow on the Alde-Ore Estuary.

Glen Pearce, the Property Operations Manager for the National Trust at Orford Ness said:
“In recent years we’ve strived to make Orford Ness more accessible to our visitors, but the short river crossing still remains a barrier to many of our visitors so the new landing craft will mean so many more people will be able to visit. The new craft will also give us much more flexibility in bringing equipment and the flock of rare breed sheep on and off site making it easier to carry out important conservation work.”

Philip Lovegrove, the managing director at PDL Marine said, “we are delighted to secure the contract with National Trust for the build of the landing craft and hope it will serve them very well for a long time to come. I wish to pass my thanks on to all the team at National Trust for the opportunity.”

PDL Marine are aluminium boat builders and fabricators at Portchester, near Portsmouth and specialise in landing craft, patrol boats and survey vessels.

Solace Global Maritime Prep for Final Campaign of Shetland Project

Tuesday, 27th June 2023

Solace Global Maritime is currently in the final stages of planning guard vessel deployments for Campaign 3 of an offshore project in Scotland.

Once complete, later this year, this project will allow for the export of renewable energy generated from Shetland to the UK mainland, connecting Shetland to the nation’s electricity transmission system for the first time.

Solace has the most recent, proven experience in cable protection for some of the UK and Europe’s largest critical infrastructure projects, and their success protecting the first 100km of cable on Campaign 1 in 2022 saw them deploying further guard vessels for Campaign 2 earlier this year, due to complete later this summer.

This final push will see completion of the full 260km subsea HVDC link and with Campaign 3 guard vessel deployments beginning this weekend, and the number of vessels on protection duty more than doubling in the coming weeks, it’s a busy time for the project team, but the focus remains on quality and safety above all else.

Solace provides compliant, vetted guard vessels with experienced crews, for the protection of interconnectors, offshore wind installations, and surveys. As a holder of multiple ISO standards, and as a member of both the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and European Subsea Cables Association (ESCA), Solace is a highly accredited company and understands the importance of creating a safe, secure working environment to protect both people and assets.

With multiple projects on the horizon, it’s a busy time for Solace, who are going from strength to strength, and increasingly growing their footprint within the industry.

Associated Listing:

Marine Fire Safety secures hire agreement for NEW 14 person liferaft at Seawork

Tuesday, 20th June 2023

After an incredibly successful Seawork show, Marine Fire Safety; specialists in firefighting and lifesaving equipment, has secured their first order for a new 14 person ISO liferaft.

The hire agreement, which was established at last week’s show, will see a new Seago 14 person ISO liferaft delivered and installed on board Southampton RIB Charter’s brand-new Highfield Patrol 860.

Akis Zissis, Managing Director at Southampton RIB Charter comments, “The arrival of the 14 person raft, presents a huge opportunity to boost our income here at Southampton RIB Charter. Until now, we have been restricted to carrying a maximum of 10 passengers on our charters, however, with this new liferaft, we can now take an additional two passengers per charter and have the option of having an additional crew member whilst carrying just one raft. This is a huge advantage for us as a business.”

Chris Waterman, Technical Sales Manager at Marine Fire Safety comments, “The arrival of the 14 person ISO liferaft fulfils a demand in the market that has been apparent for quite a few years. We are excited to finally be in a position, to offer it to both our workboat and charter customers here in the UK. This option will give many companies the opportunity to increase their turnover, which in turn will see them cover their liferaft hire costs quite quickly.”

Seago’s new 14 person ISO liferaft is now part of Marine Fire Safety’s liferaft portfolio and is available for purchase or hire.

Associated Listing:

Unique Group Delivers Fully Bespoke Nitrox Commercial Diving System

Tuesday, 20th June 2023

Unique Group, global innovators in subsea technologies and engineering, proudly announces the successful delivery of a cutting-edge, fully bespoke Nitrox commercial diving system to OSC Marine. The exceptional system was custom designed in collaboration with OSC Marine, meeting the stringent requirements for offshore operations on a Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) platform.

By working closely with OSC Marine, Unique Group developed a tailored Nitrox commercial diving system that surpasses industry standards. The system’s ABS design, manufacturing, and testing witness provide unparalleled quality assurance, ensuring robustness and reliability in demanding offshore environments. Furthermore, compliance with the latest IMCA guidelines demonstrates Unique Group’s commitment to adhering to the highest safety protocols.

Leveraging the highest level of technology and components, including the renowned NUVAIR Voyager IV nitrox generator, this bespoke system is engineered to prioritise safe operations. The inclusion of the NUVAIR Voyager IV nitrox generator further exemplifies the advanced technological capabilities of the delivered system. This state-of-the-art equipment enhances operational efficiency and ensures the safety of divers, enabling OSC Marine to achieve superior outcomes in their offshore marine endeavours.

Upon receiving the fully bespoke Nitrox commercial diving system, OSC Marine expressed their utmost satisfaction and delight. Mike Jessop, OSC Marine Group CEO, conveyed their appreciation, stating, “We are thrilled to have received such a high-end, quality system from Unique Group. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and attention to detail throughout the design and delivery process has been exceptional. This bespoke solution met our requirements for delivery, quality, and robustness. ”

Rodney McKechnie, VP-Diving and Life Support at Unique Group added: “We are delighted to have worked closely with OSC Marine to deliver this fully bespoke Nitrox commercial diving system. Our collaboration and shared commitment to innovation and safety have resulted in a system that surpasses expectations. This delivery signifies our dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. We look forward to continuing our partnership with OSC Marine and supporting their future endeavours.”

Unique Group’s relentless pursuit of innovation and customer satisfaction has established it as a leading provider of diving and subsea solutions worldwide. With a diverse range of advanced products and a steadfast focus on excellence, Unique Group continues to set new industry benchmarks and create exceptional value for its clients.

Associated Listing:

Unique System UK Ltd

Turner Iceni Is Proud To Announce The Launch Of Its Latest Innovation

Monday, 19th June 2023

Turner Iceni is proud to announce the launch of its latest innovation – The third-generation version of our MHAS Condition Monitoring System that revolutionizes the way onshore, and offshore wind turbines and hydro generators are inspected and maintained.

Our new system is designed to provide accurate, continuous, and real-time monitoring of turbines, enabling professionals to identify issues before they become critical, thereby minimizing downtime, and reducing maintenance costs.

Given its durable construction and the fact that it is easily installed, the new MHAS system is suitable for use across a broad range of wind turbines and hydro generators. It allows technicians and asset management operations to monitor vibration and other factors in real-time providing clear and easy-to-understand data informed decision making.

With the latest technology developed, sampling of up to 12 high-frequency sensors at up to 100kHz simultaneously is now possible with the capabilities to monitor all critical components of your asset.

Following months of continuous research and development, we couldn’t be happier with the final product and would love to invite the whole industry to learn more. If anyone would like a demonstration of our new system to truly understand it’s capabilities, please get in touch.

“We are really excited to share these developments with the industry. We invested heavily to ensure the latest version could offer our customers with the best service to protect their investments and assets.” Mikiel Hibbard, Operations Manager

About Turner Iceni

Turner Iceni is a UK-based leader in renewable energy services, specialising in the wind sector. With a focus on offshore and onshore wind farms, Turner Iceni provides a comprehensive range of services designed to support the full lifecycle of renewable energy projects. Headquartered in Lowestoft, they offer expertise across asset management, engineering, logistics, and marine operations, positioning themselves as a key partner for wind energy developers, operators, and owners.

Turner Iceni’s asset management services help clients optimise performance, reduce downtime, and enhance the lifespan of their assets. Their engineering services include advanced diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and component replacement, allowing for effective operational management of wind turbines. Turner Iceni’s logistics solutions extend to crew transfer and personnel support, using a fleet of specialized vessels to safely and efficiently transport personnel and equipment to offshore wind sites.

Their marine operations division is highly regarded, providing vessel management, marine coordination, and logistics support essential for offshore wind farm operations. Turner Iceni’s commitment to safety, innovation, and efficiency makes them a preferred partner in the renewable energy industry, helping clients achieve reliable, sustainable energy production with minimised operational risks and costs.

Associated Listing:

Big Orders for Ultra Guard at Seawork 2023

Monday, 19th June 2023

Ultraguard have been given the contract to provide ultrasonic biofouling protection on twenty-four new vessels ordered by Farra Marine on the first day of Seawork 2023 in Southampton.

The new vessels are to be built by Penguin International Ltd in Singapore.

These new vessels are a significant investment by the Irish-based Farra Marine. This expansion of their fleet of modern new built CTVs is a mark of the success that Farra has built in the offshore renewables sector.

Both Farra Marine and Penguin International are repeat Ultraguard customers and we’re extremely proud to be their preferred choice for ultrasonic protection. It was great to see them again at Seawork 2023.

Each vessel will have six Ultraguard Master Series MS02 units installed, three in each hull sponson. The twelve transducers will give the vessel an even spread of protection from biofouling such as mussels and barnacles which would cause the vessel to lose operating speed as well as increase it’s fuel consumption and emissions.

Ultraguard’s Sales Director Gavin Fisher said: “I am really happy for Martin and everyone at Farra Marine with their fleet expansion. The 144 MS02 units we will be supplying them will help keep the vessels operating efficiently and clean”

In what was a record-breaking day for Ultraguard at Seawork 2023, we also took significant orders from two further customers.

Associated Listing:

Effects of Corrosion on Fastener Performance and Integrity

Friday, 16th June 2023

Corrosion is a formidable and persistent challenge faced by the fastener industry, exerting a detrimental impact on the performance and integrity of fasteners.

It occurs as a result of metals coming into contact with moisture, air, and other corrosive elements, initiating a series of chemical reactions that ultimately lead to the breakdown of the metal and the deterioration of the fastener.

Understanding the various types of corrosion, their effects on fastener performance, and implementing effective mitigation techniques and preventive measures are crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of fasteners in diverse applications.

There exist several distinct types of corrosion that can significantly affect fasteners, each presenting its own unique characteristics and risks:

Uniform corrosion: This form of corrosion manifests as a gradual loss of material, spreading evenly across the entire surface of the fastener. As the material erodes, the strength of the fastener diminishes, posing a potential threat to structural integrity.
Pitting corrosion: Pitting corrosion is characterized by the formation of small pits or holes on the surface of the fastener. These pits can rapidly grow in size, compromising the structural integrity of the fastener and potentially leading to premature failure, even when subjected to relatively low loads.
Galvanic corrosion: Galvanic corrosion arises when two dissimilar metals come into contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte. This contact creates an electrochemical cell, initiating an electrical current that causes corrosion to occur more rapidly in the less noble metal. The galvanic corrosion process can result in severe material degradation and structural weakness.
Crevice corrosion: Crevice corrosion arises in areas where there is limited access to oxygen or water, such as tight spaces between fasteners or beneath washers. The confined environment hinders proper ventilation and drainage, allowing corrosive elements to accumulate and promote localized corrosion. Crevice corrosion can pose a significant risk, as it often goes unnoticed until substantial damage has already occurred.

The impact of corrosion on fastener performance cannot be overstated. Corrosion weakens the fastener, diminishing its load-bearing capacity and making it susceptible to premature failure under normal or even moderate loads.

Furthermore, corrosion can compromise the thread strength of the fastener, rendering it more prone to stripping or shearing. Additionally, the corrosion process can loosen the fastener, resulting in a loss of clamping force and potentially compromising the structural integrity of the assembly.

To combat the adverse effects of corrosion, a range of mitigation techniques and preventive measures are available:

Corrosion-resistant coatings: Applying specialised coatings, such as zinc plating or organic coatings, to the surface of the fastener can provide an effective barrier against corrosive elements. These coatings act as sacrificial layers, sacrificially corroding to protect the underlying fastener material.
Selection of appropriate materials: Opting for fasteners made from materials that inherently possess high corrosion resistance, such as stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant alloys, is an effective preventive measure. These materials exhibit superior resistance to corrosion, ensuring the longevity and reliability of fasteners in challenging environments.
Lubrication: The application of lubricants serves multiple purposes in corrosion prevention. Lubricants not only create a protective barrier between the fastener and corrosive elements but also enhance the tightening torque during installation, thereby improving the clamping force and reducing the likelihood of fastener failure.
Cathodic protection: Cathodic protection involves employing sacrificial anodes made of more reactive metals, such as zinc or aluminium, in close proximity to the fasteners. These sacrificial anodes attract corrosive elements and corrode themselves, thus shielding the fasteners from corrosion by acting as a sacrificial layer.
Inspection and maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance practices play a vital role in detecting and addressing corrosion-related issues promptly.

Routine inspection and maintenance procedures are essential for identifying early signs of corrosion and preventing its progression. Regular visual inspections can help detect visible signs of corrosion, such as discolouration, pitting, or surface irregularities. Additionally, non-destructive testing techniques, such as ultrasonic testing or magnetic particle inspection, can be employed to assess the internal integrity of fasteners and identify hidden corrosion.

Incorporating preventive measures into maintenance routines is crucial for effective corrosion management. This includes implementing a proactive approach to remove and replace corroded fasteners promptly. Corroded fasteners should be replaced with new ones that are resistant to corrosion, ensuring the continued structural integrity and reliability of the assembly.

Moreover, conducting regular cleaning and maintenance of fasteners is paramount. Removing accumulated dirt, debris, and corrosive contaminants from fastener surfaces reduces the risk of corrosion initiation and progression. It is advisable to utilise appropriate cleaning agents and techniques that are compatible with the fastener material to avoid causing any additional damage.

Education and training on corrosion awareness and prevention should be provided to personnel involved in fastener handling, installation, and maintenance. By raising awareness about the detrimental effects of corrosion and the importance of preventive measures, employees can actively contribute to maintaining the integrity of fasteners throughout their lifecycle.

Collaboration with suppliers and manufacturers is also crucial in mitigating the impact of corrosion on fastener performance. Engaging in a dialogue with suppliers can ensure the procurement of high-quality, corrosion-resistant fasteners that meet the specific requirements of the intended application. Manufacturers can provide guidance on material selection, surface treatments, and coating options that offer enhanced corrosion protection.

In conclusion, corrosion poses significant challenges to the fastener industry, affecting the performance and integrity of fasteners. Understanding the various types of corrosion, and their effects, and implementing appropriate mitigation techniques and preventive measures are vital for ensuring the longevity and reliability of fasteners.

By employing corrosion-resistant coatings, selecting suitable materials, practising proper lubrication, utilising cathodic protection, and conducting regular inspection and maintenance, fastener manufacturers and users can effectively combat the adverse effects of corrosion, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of their products in diverse environments.

Author: CGTeam

Advertise with Seaplant

Join us