Hull condition monitoring and antifouling

At Spliethoff Group, we are committed to enhancing our environmental performance through innovative technologies and sustainable practices. One of our initiatives involves the development and implementation of an advanced hull condition monitoring system and the use of premium silicone-based antifouling coating.

In recent years, Spliethoff has developed a custom-made Performance Monitoring System that continuously collects operational data from onboard machinery. This data is enriched with other sources, such as local weather information, to provide a comprehensive picture of the fleet's performance at any time.

Access to high-frequency operational data is invaluable for improving the vessels' environmental performance. Spliethoff leverages this data in various ways to achieve this goal.

One key area is hull condition monitoring. We have developed an internal system that monitors vessels' performance data to indicate hull condition, detecting overconsumption due to possible biofouling. This system uses machine learning to create digital twins of the vessels, a core component of the system. By using this technology, we ensure our vessels' hulls are cleaned in time to remain smooth, resulting in optimal environmental performance.

However, merely monitoring hull conditions and scheduling hull and propeller cleanings is not the ultimate goal. Spliethoff strives for a holistic approach to hull condition management.

Through years of monitoring, we have accumulated extensive knowledge about the performance and effectiveness of different antifouling systems in various operating environments. By combining this knowledge with real-time operational data, we make informed decisions on the most suitable antifouling system for each vessel, based on its expected operating profile. This approach also helps us determine which vessels are best suited for premium-quality antifouling systems.

Today, several vessels have been treated with premium antifouling systems. Notably, we have recently applied a silicone-based antifouling system to our M.v. Singelgracht, which is among the most promising antifouling products on the market.

Premium-quality coatings, particularly silicone-based ones, result in very smooth hull surfaces, reducing friction, preventing fouling of the hull, and leading to lower fuel consumption and, consequently, lower emissions.