Rethinking hull cleaning – from divers to ROVs
“We see that more and more ship service companies are realizing the benefits of moving away from traditional diver-based cleaning,” says Managing Director Svein Cato Rund.
“A remotely operated solution like our MultiCleaner offers greater flexibility, better control, higher safety, and lower operating costs over time.”
A clean hull reduces drag, improves fuel efficiency, and lowers emissions. It also helps prevent the spread of invasive species – a growing global environmental concern.
“A fouled hull slows down the vessel and increases fuel use. It’s simply bad business and bad for the environment,” Rund adds.
Talleres Industriales – a key reference in Panama
The MultiCleaner ROV was delivered in September, with Eivind Eidissen from Trosvik Oceantech on site to carry out Mechanical Completion and Site Acceptance Test (MC & SAT), as well as operator training.
“The team at Talleres already had some ROV experience, so they quickly mastered the system,” says Rund.
“Their feedback has been excellent – they describe the MultiCleaner as powerful, stable, and easy to operate.”
Talleres is now evaluating additional units, including versions equipped with high-pressure Jet Wash instead of the standard Brush Cart.
Ahead of future environmental standards
Panama is just one of several strategically important markets for Trosvik Oceantech. The company is now looking toward key maritime regions such as the Suez Canal, Gibraltar Strait, and ports in Australia and New Zealand – all known for their strict environmental regulations. Northern Europe, including Gothenburg and Mongstad, also presents growing opportunities.
“We expect new international regulations to require full capture and treatment of waste from hull cleaning. We’re already working to meet those standards,” Rund says.
Next-generation MultiCleaner – with nanofiltration
The company is currently developing a new MultiCleaner model that will collect and neutralize all waste through an advanced nanotechnology-based filtration system, planned for launch in 2027.
“We believe this will set a new global benchmark for sustainable hull cleaning,” Rund explains.
“It’s not just about technology and efficiency – it’s about helping the maritime industry operate cleaner and greener.”
A Norwegian leap forward beneath the surface
With strong results from the Panama delivery and increasing international interest, Trosvik Oceantech is strengthening its position as a leader in ROV-based hull cleaning.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved – and even more motivated for what’s ahead,” says Rund.
“It’s rewarding to see Norwegian-developed technology improving both efficiency and environmental performance – literally beneath the surface.”