BIO-UV Group secures USCG type approval for BWTS range

French provider of UV-based water treatment technology BIO-UV Group has received IMO & USCG type approval for its next-generation low flow rate ballast water treatment system range.

The BIO-SEA L Easy-to-Fit system had to undergo new type approval testing as it incorporates a completely new UV-reactor, designed to meet market demand from the luxury yacht, expedition cruise and offshore vessel segments, where ballast water pump flow rate capacities are often under 100m3/h.

The company has secured type approval from both the International Maritime Organization and the US Coast Guard for the new ballast water treatment system.

“This development really sets us apart from our competitors in the market. BIO-SEA L Easy-to-Fit is the smallest BWTS purpose-built for low flow rates,” Benoît Gillmann, BI0-UV Group CEO and Founder said.

“Everything has been adapted to suit the lower flow rates of the smaller vessel.”

BIO-SEA L is based on a completely new 6kW UV lamp arrangement, sized to treat flow rates of between 20m3/h and 90m3/h (USCG mode) and up to 120m3/h in IMO mode.

A key change is the UV lamp and casing materials used in the new system. One 6kW lamp can treat ballast water flows of up to 30m3. A further one or two lamps can be added to the BWTS skid for flow rates of 60m3 and 90m3, respectively.

Based on the experience gained from BIO-SEA B range (50 to 2000 m3/h) which received USCG type approval in 2017, the France-headquartered system designer and manufacturer says the development provides ship operators with more competitive ballast water treatment with low CAPEX and low OPEX.

“These benefits have been achieved as a result of the unique design of our reactors. Each BIO-SEA L Easy-to-Fit unit features reactors with a 6kW UV lamp, which it is less expensive to replace than the larger lamps,” Xavier Bayle, Technical and R&D Manager said.

“This means reduced maintenance for the crew, fewer spare parts have to be kept onboard and as the automated UV sensors adapt to the quality of the water, energy consumption is better regulated, reducing energy consumption and preserving lamp life.”

With a footprint starting at 1.36m2, the BIO-SEA L skid can also be split into two parts simplifying onboard delivery, installation and integration, and making it suitable for retrofit projects.

Xavier Deval, Business Director, Ballast Water Solution, explained that for many owners and builders, system footprint is an important consideration.

“As a flat packed, split-skid solution, we are able to simplify the installation process and reduce installation costs and time as a BIO-SEA L Easy-to-Fit can easily fit through existing hatches and doors, without having to cut access holes into the vessel,” he pointed out.

BIO-UV Group said it can deliver its modular BIO-SEA system in eight weeks – a highly competitive lead time.

“So far, the new coronavirus has not presented any significant risk to our activities,” said Gillmann. 

“As to manufacturing supplies, we currently have an inventory level sufficient to maintain production rates. The bulk of our UV systems are assembled mainly in France and Asian operations are restarting.”

BIO-UV Group also has revenues coming from other sectors with the provision of solutions for drinking water, wastewater, aquaculture and recreational activities.

In the first two months of 2020, BIO-UV Group reported a 29% increase in revenue year-on-year.