Terresolve Technologies biodegradable fluids gain ABB Group approval
June 19, 2012
Offshore staff
MENTOR, Ohio– Terresolve’s EnviroLogic 3000 series of biodegradable hydraulic fluids has won approval from the ABB Marine Propulsion Group for use in its Azipod X-series shaft seal system.
In the event of a leak or spill, Terresolve says that the fluids do not leave behind an oil slick or cause any long-term negative environmental effects. The EnviroLogic 3000 hydraulic fluids break down into natural parts within 28 days in accordance with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s ultimate biodegradation test.
CEO Mark Miller said: “The ABB approval is a testament to our commitment to providing quality fluids. We are constantly striving to provide our customers with environmentally safe fluids that do not sacrifice performance, and we’re thrilled that manufacturers in the industry like ABB have taken notice.”
The US Environmental Protection Agency has released the newly proposed vessel general permit (VGP), a regulation that will require the use of environmentally acceptable fluids (EAF) in all oil to water interfaces when the current VPG expires in December 2013. This proposed act would require all propulsion equipment like ABB Azipods, thrusters, and stern tube to use EAFs.
“The VGP raises the bar for biodegradable fluids,” Miller said. “Fluid performance is critical in all vessels, and any technical failure can be catastrophic. As such, it is very comforting that companies like ABB, Rolls Royce, and Thrustmaster approve our fluids and view environmental safety as a top priority when considering which fluids to use in their various systems.”
ABB Azipod propulsion systems are designed for all vessels in the offshore industry, including drillships. The systems improve performance in ice operations, and they have reduced fuel consumption and CO2emissions.
6/19/2012
