Hjaltland gets her turn on slip after newly-painted sister returns to sea
A coat of “cutting edge anti-fouling paint” was among improvements the NorthLink ferry Hrossey underwent during her recent spell at dry-dock in Fredericia, Denmark.
The paint has similar qualities to Teflon, including a smooth finish that inhibits the growth of weeds and barnacles, and will, it is claimed, save the company money.
A NorthLink spokesman said: “The International Paints ‘Intersleek 900’ coating … is a Teflon-like product which discourages weed and barnacle growth and having a smoother finish promotes better fuel economy.”
The exact savings on fuel costs could not be specified, however the paint suppliers have estimated that typically five and in some cases up to 10 per cent can be saved on fuel bills due to a reduction in drag on the ship.
The paint is also said to be more environmentally friendly than other chemical leaching anti-fouling paints. The company expect the savings made on fuel to cover the costs of this new paint, which will be included in the bill for the dry-dock maintenance work.
Other alterations to the ship included the construction of a new fo’c’sle (forecastle) deckhouse. A NorthLink spokesperson explained: “[This] should prevent a recurrence of the recent wave damage to the fo’c’sle doorway leading to the crew accommodation area. A similar protective fo’c’sle deckhouse is being added to Hjaltland.”
The Hjaltland is now in Fredericia where she, too, will undergo her annual refit and dry-dock inspection.
