Monday 22 June 2020

Lightweight cladding launches on the seas

Lightweight cladding launches on the seas

A new lightweight ship's cladding, which can withstand temperatures more than 1000°C could not only change the face of the maritime industry but also to bring it closer to its net zero goals.

The material which is developed by Australia's national science agency Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Tasmanian marine insulation business CBG Systems, has already been installed on two new ships and used to replace cladding on another.

The prototype panelling, called ‘Rapid Access Composite’ claims to be the first of its kind in the world and it uses a thermal protective coating, which enables it to remain stronger than conventional fire protection coatings.

 

[caption id="attachment_204140" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: CBG Systems[/caption]

Weighing about half as much as traditional metal cladding, it can reduce fuel consumption, carbon dioxide emissions leading to greener ships with improved operational efficiency.

CSIRO Chief Executive Larry Marshall said: "By working side by side with industry, innovative science and technology create new value and growth for Australian businesses to grow our way back from the current crisis.”

The new technology was supported through several Federal Government programmes.

Written by

Bruna Pinhoni

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