CMR Eyes BWT System Control Growth

Ratification of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Ballast Water Management (BWM) convention has been welcomed by stakeholders throughout the maritime industry, including CMR Group, which said it sees the move as a boost for system and equipment manufacturers.

The marine electrical wiring control and instrumentation specialist CMR Group commented after Finland ratified the convention, which saw the total tonnage of contracting states surpass the 35 percent mark. 

The countdown has now started for ship owners and managers, as the convention comes into effect from September 2017. Marine vessels are required to manage their ballast water and sediments to try to contain the spread of invasive species of microorganisms into non-indigenous environments, causing a major threat to marine ecosystems. 

According to CMR, tens of thousands of existing vessels worldwide, including an estimated 5,000 oil tankers, will need to be retrofitted with BWTS to ensure compliance. New ship builders will also be required to make preparations to identify the options for installing systems in original specifications – both within the construction program or through retrofitting. 

According to the IMO, ratification will effect a level playing field for international shipping, providing “clear and robust standards for the management of ballast water on ships.”

Ian Hamilton, CMR’s BWTS project leader, said, equipment manufacturers who have systems in place or under development, will be boosted by this news but understanding the concerns of OEMs will be critical.

“Ratification will see thousands of maritime vessels requiring a BWT system to be installed between now and 2020, driving sales demand,” Hamilton said.

“However, all these systems will need control panel and monitoring systems to ensure proper performance and limit time consuming and costly damage to components. The capacity to build and supply within two to four weeks at a competitive price and backed up by engineering support are now the key drivers for successful suppliers to the sector,” Hamilton continued. “A global reach and marine experience will also be important factors in securing sales.”

Hamilton added that shared partnerships will remain important to expanding BWTS OEMs’ offering and new business potential. 

“After all, if it’s beneficial for one, it surely makes sense for others to work alongside manufacturers like us, who have a global reach in marine and cost effective, rapid lead time capabilities.