Shipping container firm Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is employing robots to clean the hulls of the company’s container ships to prevent biofouling.

The HullSkater from marine tech company Jotun Group adheres to the hull of a ship via magnetic wheels, removing bacteria and biofilm, which could lead to biofouling — the accumulation of microorganisms, plants, algae or small animals on wetted surfaces that could deform the structure of a ship.

Source: Jotun GroupSource: Jotun Group

Controlled via 4G, the robot removes the biofilm without damaging the ship, thereby eliminating drag and fuel consumption.

MSC is reportedly the first shipping container company to employ the HullSkater. To see how the technology works, watch the accompanying video that appears courtesy of Jotun Group.

To contact the author of this article, email mdonlon@globalspec.com