Hempel introduces Hempaguard Ultima; the next generation of its market-leading high-performance silicone hull coating system
As the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to decarbonise, Hempel proudly introduces its groundbreaking new two-layer coating system, Hempaguard Ultima. Building on the success of Hempaguard X7, which has been applied to more than 4000 vessels and is third- party verified and validated for its performance and decarbonisation efforts by DNV, Hempel has invested in further developing its cutting-edge innovation. With the introduction of Hempaguard Ultima, customers are better able to navigate the increasingly strict regulatory environment and move the maritime industry closer to meeting its decarbonisation goals.
“Hempaguard Ultima is our most significant innovation in a decade and an important step forward in our ability to protect and improve our customers’ most important assets. It has been designed to safeguard vessels from fouling with a unique two-layer system, enabling our customers to reach their sustainability objectives while also achieving operational excellence. I am excited to introduce this ground-breaking innovation to our customers and look forward to following its success and impact in the market,” says Alexander Enström, Executive Vice President and Head of Marine at Hempel A/S.
Hempaguard Ultima combines the tried-and-tested performance of Hempaguard X7 with Hempel’s revolutionary new biocide-free silicone topcoat, Hempaguard XL, preventing growth of marine organisms while ensuring long-lasting hull protection. By choosing Hempaguard Ultima, vessel owners and operators can reach their decarbonisation goals swiftly whilst benefitting from reduced operating costs. With Hempaguard Ultima, customers can expect:
- Up to 21% fuel savings
- 160 fouling-free idle days
- Only 0.9% speed loss on average1
- 6% immediate out-of-dock performance increase2
Diego Meseguer Yebra, R&D Director Marine at Hempel A/S comments “With Hempaguard Ultima, a vessel’s hull is able to achieve a more stable surface smoothness, even into the fourth or fifth year of the docking cycle3. This reduces the risk of fouling after long service periods, even when the coating’s hydrogel and biocide can start losing some effectiveness. At the same time, the Hempaguard XL topcoat acts as a modulator for the release of biocide from Hempaguard X7, allowing a lower biocide amount per square metre to last longer.”
Source: Hempel