Within a short time, a biofilm forms on wet surfaces, laying the foundation for further colonization by mussels and other organisms, among others.
This contamination spreads through the systems and has a direct impact on your vessel:
In addition to operational impacts, stricter environmental regulations and higher fuel costs are making efficient and sustainable operations increasingly important. SmartFlow protects your vessel and systems from fouling at the source.
The system transmits ultrasonic sound waves through the hull and piping, creating subtle vibrations that disrupt the adhesion of microorganisms. This keeps systems clean and maintains performance without the use of chemicals or major maintenance.
Would you like to ask technical questions, discuss a custom project, or place an order? Our antifouling specialists are here to help.
You can easily reach us by phone, email, or through our contact form. We’re happy to assist you with any questions or issues you may have.
The SmartFlow ultrasonic antifouling system is a preventive system consisting of a control unit and one or more transducers. The transducers are placed on a structure by means of a 2-component industrial epoxy adhesive. They produce ultrasonic signals that travel through the structure to be protected. This high-frequency signal makes it more difficult for unicellular bacteria to adhere and thus prevents further fouling of the ship. In fact, these single-celled bacteria make up the biofilm that multicellular organisms need to settle on a surface.
In connection with correct installation and warranty, it is advisable to have the system installed by Lamers System Care or an authorized dealer of the SmartFlow system. In particular, determining the positions of the transducers and placing the transducers require professional attention and experience.
The system consumes an average of 5 watts per transducer. It can be connected to 110-240 VAC, 50/60Hz.
Ultrasonic is not perceptible to human hearing. What can be heard is the gentle “clicking” of the Ultrasonic transducer, however, this is negligible.
The system has no effect on marine life. The system lacks the power to transmit the ultrasonic waves further through the water.
The system is applicable to different materials such as steel, aluminum and plastic (polyester). It is important that it be a rigid material that can transport sound and does not absorb it.
The ultrasonic antifouling system is included on the RVO’s Environmental List (MIA/VAMIL). As a result, an investment in this system may qualify for a tax investment deduction. Whether and to what extent this applies may vary from year to year; LSC would be happy to provide information on the current options.
SmartFlow stands out in several ways. The system is monitored remotely 24/7 via the SmartFlow Portal: performance is recorded in real time, anomalies are immediately flagged, and settings—such as frequency patterns—are remotely adjusted and optimized as needed. In addition, SmartFlow uses dynamic frequencies tailored to the specific application that continuously disrupt the buildup of fouling; its effectiveness is substantiated and guaranteed in advance through SPL modeling and measurements. The system is also modular and scalable, configurable from 1 to 12 transducers, ensuring that both small applications and complex installations always receive the appropriate coverage. Finally, SmartFlow is developed and assembled entirely in-house in the Netherlands, ensuring consistent quality, direct communication, fast service, and a service life of 10+ years.
No, the ship does not have to be dry. It can simply be installed while the ship is in the water.
The Ultrasonic system is a preventive system, which prevents fouling when the application is clean. The installation itself does not require the application to be clean. However, for the system to work properly, it does need to start clean for best results. The Ultrasonic system cannot remove existing fouling, it can only slow down the process.
