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Jotun launches advanced hull optimisation programme

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Norwegian coatings supplier Jotun has launched a proactive hull optimisation programme which it says combines the company’s digital capabilities, ROV inspections and analytical and technical expertise to help operators reduce fuel, inspection and cleaning costs, regardless of the chosen hull coating.

Called HullKeeper, the new programme is the result of an extensive development effort by Jotun’s team of hull performance experts. The four-part programme consists of hull monitoring, fouling risk alerts, inspections and advisory services, with operators able to subscribe to the whole package or individual modules.

According to Stein Kjølberg, Jotun’s Global Hull Performance director, ship operators are increasingly recognising that proactive fouling control and hull efficiency are “critical” to managing increasingly strict regulations, rising fuel costs and environmental performance.

“HullKeeper extends the range of [Jotun] services, helping operators make well-informed and proactive decisions to improve hull efficiency as they push for optimal performance, efficiency and regulatory compliance,” he says.   

The HullKeeper programme is based around Jotun’s proprietary fouling risk algorithm, supported by data from different sources to make fouling control and efficiency more predictable. By providing insight into issues before they occur, ship operators can take planned corrective actions, and over time best practices can be identified and implemented across the whole fleet. 

Biofouling is thought to account for about 9% of the 919m tons of CO2 and 21m tons of other greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted by shipping annually, adds Jotun’s Global Digital & Data director Andreas Krapp, meaning that use of HullKeeper can bring significant environmental as well as economic benefits.