“There are 54 BWMS approved under the IMO regime, but worryingly only 17 manufacturers have indicated an intent to submit their system for USCG approval testing… the low rate of application raises serious concerns over confidence in the operational capability of equipment that is already being sold, the Round Table (RT) of International Shipping Organisations said.” World Maritime News
Ecochlor announced in February that independent testing of its ballast water treatment system (BWTS) will begin as part of its application to secure United States Type Approval from the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Ecochlor has selected DNV-GL, an Independent Laboratory authorized by the USCG, to oversee and supervise this process. Testing will include a series of land-based test cycles, ship-based test cycles and environmental tests. The California Maritime Academy’s Golden Bear Facility, a USCG-approved sub-laboratory, will conduct all land-based and ship-based tests. Ship-based tests will be performed onboard the T/S Golden Bear beginning with the vessel’s sailing schedule this summer, which is currently planned for the Mediterranean Sea. Ecochlor expects to complete its independent testing by the end of 2015.