R.W. Fernstrum Comments on Gridcooler Use in the GOM

In response to concerns, R.W. Fernstrum recently reassured its customers that Fernstrum Gridcooler  Keel Coolers are designed specifically to keep pollutants such as crude oil out of the cooling circuit to which they are connected. They are currently in use world-wide in oil skimming vessels as well as a variety of fishing vessels, supply vessels, work boats, pleasure craft, and numerous other vessel types. Many variables may affect the efficiency of the keel cooler while operating in oily water, but the operator should still be able to operate at reduced capacity.  Seawater temperature, physical properties of the oil, oil to seawater ratio you are operating in, hull speed through the oily water, and water depth could all affect the potential efficiency of the keel cooler. The company recommends that if a Fernstrum Gridcooler Keel Cooler becomes fouled, a simple high pressure wash with a non-abrasive bio-degradable cleaning solution should be used to clean the keel cooler.

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