»First systems to be sold this year«
What did SKF Marine develop for ballast water treatment?
Mathias Rusch: We have developed our own ballast water[ds_preview] system. Based on UV technology combined with ultrasound. Ultrasound is also used for cleaning blood in medical technology. We have looked at this technology. We found that both techniques have their strengths and weaknesses. We actually had relatively much ultrasound and little UV-light, but then we got closer with regard to the size of the organisms. The big advantage of ultrasound is that the technique also works in turbid waters, better than UV. The positive side effect is that with ultrasound technology, the tubes of UV technology can be kept continuously free.
There are many suppliers already in the market. Why do you expose yourself to this competition? It is not the »initial market« of SKF so far…
Rusch: We believe that the technology is good. We have said from the beginning that we want to have an uncomplicated system where the operator simply presses the button. We do not differentiate between modes for IMO or US Coast Guard approvals. The operators have enough to do on board, they should not have to worry about what mode is the correct one. One of our advantages is that we are already on the way with other products in the maritime market. Our approach is not the current peak, but the long-term business with the customer: with the technology, reasonable service, spare parts supply etc. From my point of view, ballast water treatment is a critical system for the operation of the ship, therefore a high level of service is needed. Yes, there are many competitors in the market and there are more to come. But I think that in the medium term not all of them will stay in the market.
Do you have the necessary IMO or USCG approvals?
Rusch: We are applying for both approvals with the USCG one being the more stringents one. I believe that there will be a standardisation, and then more towards the stricter directive. The essential, relevant tests for our technology have been positive, well below the limits. So from my perspective there is no reason why the USCG should not agree to this. I assume that we will receive a USCG certificate in the middle of the year.
Do you already talk to shipowners about installations?
Rusch: Yes, we are actually negotiating with many shipowners. It is of course an advantage that we are known in the market. At the moment, all shipowners say: We need the approval, and some have fallen flat on their face in the past.
When will they be ready to actually and physically install systems?
Rusch: We expect the first systems to be sold this year, perhaps even the first installations this year. Discussions with interested parties are currently very positive. We are fully in the industrialization phase.
