The principle behind the ultrasonic system dates back decades and is used, for example, in the medical field to kill certain cells (microorganisms). In addition, the U.S. Navy discovered that their submarines had biological growth on the hulls, but not in the area close to the sonar system. This phenomenon was thoroughly investigated, and it became clear that there is an interesting relationship between ultrasonic sound waves and single-celled bacteria.
Unfortunately, since then, several unsuccessful experimental initiatives involving ultrasonic anti-fouling have been carried out, leading to significant negative rumors in the market. Our approach, however, is based on a system featuring a unique combination of “low-power” transducers and intelligent software. Another key principle of ours is that we utilize the resonance of the rigid structure to transmit the ultrasonic signal. No transducers are placed in the liquid; instead, they are installed exclusively in the “dry zone” of the structure. (steel plate, cooler cover, filter housing, propeller shaft bearing block) This results in the transducers being highly focused and controlled. Furthermore, the system allows 8 transducers to emit ultrasound simultaneously, which significantly increases the effectiveness and size of the treated areas.
Precisely tailored to the various types of microorganisms, the ultrasonic system prevents the organisms from growing from the very first moment and even removes them in the early stages. The system is completely maintenance-free. The number of installations is growing rapidly, as our list of references shows a significant number of users with a variety of applications. In addition to all these applications, we are seeing rapid growth in the number of Box coolers, with significant positive results.
Installing an ultrasonic system is simple. The vessel does not need to be docked. Installation can be done at any time. The system requires a constant 220 VAC power supply, which must be on 24/7. It consumes 10–20 watts per transducer. The system has an internal log that records operating hours. In the event of a power outage, the system will automatically restart once power is restored and will resume from the last recorded value.
A very important feature is that this is a preventive system. This means it is absolutely essential to start with a clean surface, whether it is a cooler, a person, a filter, a bow thruster, or a hull. So, once a vessel is clean, the system must be installed no later than one week after the vessel comes back into contact with water. This is an important requirement.
What makes Ultrasonic Anti-Fouling unique is the combination of “low-power” transducers and intelligent software, which allows the transducers to be controlled in a highly targeted and precise manner. The system executes a highly precise, customized program involving various frequencies and power levels.
The transducers must be bonded to the surfaces to be treated using special industrial adhesive. The metal transmits the ultrasonic signals to the liquid (usually water), causing them to diffuse completely throughout the medium (see images). These diffused ultrasonic waves will prevent biofilm formation and even remove it in its early stages. As a result, the ultrasonic anti-fouling system prevents fouling, biofouling, bacteria, clogging, and blockages.
Because the ultrasound waves emitted operate at specific frequencies that target only biofilm and destroy single-celled organisms, they are not harmful to the environment—including fish, dolphins, whales, or humans.
The system requires a constant power supply that must be available 24/7. It consumes a maximum of 20 watts per transducer.
Because ultrasonic antifouling is a preventive system, it is necessary to start with a clean surface.
Installing the ultrasonic antifouling system is very simple. The vessel does not need to be in dry dock. Installation can be carried out at any time. Only hull protection systems require dry docking to access the ballast water tanks, if applicable.
