Retrofitting Ballast Water Treatment System: A Container Ship Case Study

Abstract

The utilization of ballast water in ships is known to have detrimental effects on the marine environment, leading to economic losses, ecological harm and potential risks to human health. This impact stems from the transfer of non-native species and harmful pathogens through ballast water discharge. In response to these issues, the international convention on ballast water management entry into force on 8 September 2017. This paper showcases a thorough 3D scanning assessment for retrofitting the Ballast Water Treatment System (BWTS) in a container ship. The study conducted an extensive analysis of the technological intricacies associated with Ultraviolet (UV) and Filtration type Ballast Water Treatment Systems (BWTS), focusing on both installation and operational aspects. The results reveal that the weight of BWTS represented only 0.04% of the initial lightship weight, resulting in a minimal impact of less than 2% on vessel stability. Significant cost reduction was observed, with a twofold decrease in instances where UV treatment was utilized at 100% UV Transmission compared to levels below 65%. This underscores the economic advantages associated with UV treatment technology, suggesting substantial cost savings potential in ballast water management practices and the significance of integrating 3D scanning analysis in future research endeavours to accommodate specific ship-related variables and to embrace a more nuanced approach in assessing BWTS effectiveness.