Environmental Solutions

Through SeaTec, V.Group’s technical services provider, we assess the condition of vessels ahead of the compliance date of January 2023 and provide solutions to identify the modifications required, implement them and then verify those modifications. SeaTec carries out the calculations required for EEXI assessments and subsequently decides on the best course of action in consultation with the client.

Modifications we can assist with include:

• Overridable power limitation
• Propeller enhancements (ducting, nozzle technology)
• Wind assisted propulsion technology
• Dual-fuel technology

Fast action is essential when booking an EEXI assessment in order for SeaTec to carry out the assessment, secure the technology and install it ahead of the compliance date.

An essential component in vessel operations, ballast water on board vessels is subject to an range of regulations. The maritime industry operates to IMO D-1 compliance for ballast water exchange and management of those exchanges. In addition, D-2 compliance has been in effect since 2017 as a ballast water processing regulation, requiring a system on board which will process water and discharge, greatly reducing the micro-organisms per litre of water discharged. With only two years until the D-2 deadline, a system type has to be chosen, installed and verified to ensure vessel compliance.

SeaTec can provide advice on the best ballast water treatment system, as there are 40+ USCG systems available. In additional to a full assessment carried out on board the vessel, advice is given on the type of system that should be employed. This will involve many considerations, including the operational nature of the vessel, the tepidity of the water within coastal areas which will affect the operation of the system. Working in close consultation with the customer, SeaTec can support the choice of system – such as a chemical disinfection or ultraviolet, among many others – depending on its trade and what needs to be delivered.

SeaTec manages an average of 3 BWTS system installations per month, each with a varying scope. A key benefit is the number of days saved in off hire, due to the installation being carried out as soon as the vessel arrives in port, with a lot of pre-work carried out with isometric imaging. This allows for the completion of BWTS installation well ahead of the 2024 deadline, with minimal down time for the vessel.

In order to comply with environmental regulations and in line with V.Group’s commitment to the environment and sustainability, the condition of vessel hulls and propellors should be a key consideration. To date, over 7,000 hulls have been cleaned through SeaTec, removing the hydrostatic resistance built up over time which increases resistance, fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Hull cleaning typically generates a 10% reduction in fuel and Co2 emissions, delivering a huge performance benefit.

Propellor polishing generates a similar performance enhancement. By reinstating surface smoothness, turbulence and near blade gravitation, efficiency increases and thrusts operate more effectively, utilising less fuel per kilowatt of power generated and increasing vessel speed whilst reducing emissions.

Pre-docking condition monitoring survey
Using a pre-docking condition monitoring survey, we can assess machinery conditions and prevent unnecessary jobs, maximising dry dock budgets. V.Group’s dedicated team offers support with dry dock scope writing, ensuring that when a vessel goes into a dry dock the cost is agreed, avoiding added expenditure or unexpected delays.

Bunker analysis service
The fuel a vessel consumes plays a hugely important part in engine performance and Co2 emissions. Over 5,000 samples are analysed each year with our bunker analysis service. Through SeaTec, we can test fuel in addition to the existing certificate and analysis received to minimise emission outputs, ensuring that chlorides and other undesirable elements are removed and the fuel remains fit for purpose.

Drinking water analysis
A vital element of onboard wellbeing is clean drinking water. With SeaTec’s drinking water analysis, we can quickly process results in compliance with WHO regulations, allowing for quick certification and verification.

Ballast water analysis
Ballast water analysis allows us to mee requirements relation to BWTS in line with the vessel general permit (VGP) system, the EPA and the IMO. SeaTec supplies kits for on board testing which meets the criteria and prevents the vessel from being detailed or compromised in any way.

Other condition monitoring analysis that SeaTec provides includes:

• Lube oil analysis
• Scrape down analysis
• Fuel oil purifier check service
• Oily water separator check service

V.Group’s objective is to reduce single use plastics across the fleet. Through Oceanic a number of water solutions have been deployed resulting in:

• 400+ vessels enrolled into a water solutions initiative
• 650+ filtration and water preparation units supplier and installed on board
• 35,000 stainless steel drinking bottles provided
• 8+ million plastic bottles eliminated to date

V.Group can help customers reduce single use plastics on board by leasing the units or by purchasing the units which pay for their investment within two years. By reducing plastics, we’re protecting the planet by reducing transportation and easing the pressure on the supply chain.

Mandatory since the 2009 Hong Kong Convention, IHM surveys are provided through SeaTec’s on board surveyors. This service ensures that mandatory compliance is maintained.