Wellboat giant puts Hydroniq on preferred list
The world’s biggest operator, Sølvtrans, has entered into a frame agreement with Ålesund-based Hydroniq Coolers, which going forward will the shipowner’s preferred supplier of marine cooling systems.
“This is probably the most important and biggest agreement Hydroniq Coolers has ever entered into,” said Hans Robert Almestad, vice president sales and marketing at Hydroniq Coolers.
The frame agreement means that Hydroniq Coolers will be the preferred supplier of the main cooling system and separate seawater coolers, plus spare parts, for all of Sølvtrans’ future newbuild vessels. Equipment orders can be conducted by Sølvtrans, a shipyard, or any company the shipowner nominates to place the purchase order.
Earned the right
“It requires a lot to become listed on what we internally call the ‘Sølvtrans preferred suppliers list’,” said Andre Tarberg, procurement manager at Sølvtrans in a press release. “Hydroniq Coolers definitely had to earn its right to qualify as preferred supplier to Sølvtrans.
“We have over several years become well acquainted with Hydroniq Coolers’ technology and ability to deliver. Hence, it makes sense for both parties to enter into this frame agreement.”
Space saver
Hydroniq Coolers, which is headquartered at Ellingsøy outside Ålesund, has in recent years delivered its hull-integrated “Rack” marine cooling system to several of Sølvtrans’ wellboats, including numerous vessels that Norwegian shipyards Myklebust Verft and Aas Mekaniske Verksted have built or are in process of constructing for Sølvtrans.
The Rack seawater cooling system is integrated in the hull below the main engine room of the vessel, where it reduces temperatures in the ship’s engines and other auxiliary systems, but without taking up valuable engine room space.
New-build programme
In recent years, the Rack seawater cooler has increasingly been adopted by a number of shipowners worldwide, especially for vessels that typically operate with large loads and at low speeds, such as wellboats. Hydroniq said the space advantage is one obvious reason for the system’s popularity, but its high energy efficiency and that fact that the vessel crew easily can clean the system themselves also add to its appeal.
“Sølvtrans is the world’s biggest wellboat operator, with a highly ambitions new-build programme. They focus on sustainable solutions and future-oriented technologies that ensure optimal logistics and fish welfare. To be chosen as their main supplier of seawater coolers is a major declaration of trust and we consider it as an important seal of approval,” said Almestad.
Hydroniq Coolers is owned by investment company SMV Invest AS.
