Greek BWMS receives Chinese approvals
China Classification Society (CCS) has type-approved Erma First’s FIT range of ballast water management systems (BWMS) and China’s flag regulation authority has also approved the FIT series for use on vessels flying the country’s flag. The treatment system is based on electro-chlorination technology and is the first of this type to receive approval in China, the Greek BWMS manufacturer said.
The company’s managing director, Konstantinos Stampedakis, commented: “Achieving Chinese type approval can be a challenging process, but the China Classification Society proved to be an innovative and resourceful partner who helped guide us through the legal complexities.
“The owners and managers of Chinese-flagged ships now have the option to install a highly flexible, simple to use, low-energy and fully compliant ballast water management system. They can be assured of our experience of working with Chinese shipyards on both newbuilds and retrofits. We already have a strong local technical presence through our Shanghai office and provide excellent after-sales support both locally and around the world.”
Erma First’s FIT range comes in sizes from 50m3/hour to 3,000m3/hour and is suitable for all ship types. The characteristics of Chinese waters varies greatly, with high turbidity in some coastal areas and varying salinity levels. However, Erma First said that the combination of full-flow electro-chlorination, backed up by a filtration system, provides effective treatment without affecting cargo operations.
