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What is Air Lubrication?

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Installation Process

A step-by-step guide on installing our system.

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Installation process

In engineering terms, the Silverstream® System is simple to integrate into a newbuild design or to retrofit into an existing vessel. Retrofits can typically be completed within six months of order and installed during planned dry docks.

We continuously provide support to our customers throughout the entire installation, commissioning and operational process, and pride ourselves on our ability to deliver projects on time and within initial scope.

Working on a consultative basis

Our experts will configure our system for a specific vessel and standardise for fleet applications. We are experienced in coordinating and managing input from the supply chain, working with Class and coordinating with installation partners, yards and customers to deliver installations on time.

Step 1

Evaluation

Our specialist engineers will complete an initial evaluation of estimated savings and outline system design within two weeks of receiving information about a vessel, including its design and operating profile.

Customers are provided with an assessment of estimated savings across a range of speeds and for ballast and laden conditions. The evaluation methodology is developed using research carried out with our independent testing partner HSVA in Hamburg, and from comprehensive operational testing data obtained from many years of system operation.

Step 2

Proposal

Following the initial evaluation, we provide a detailed proposal including delivery schedules. Typically, we provide information for customers to engage with their preferred installation yards and partners for installation pricing.

Silverstream works with the customer and installation partners to make sure mechanical, electrical and HVAC requirements are understood and correctly specified.

Step 3

Detailed Design

Once an order is received, our engineers produce detailed design information for Class approval of the air release units (ARUs), overall system arrangement drawings and positioning drawings for the ARUs.

In addition to the design drawings, detailed plans are provided for equipment manufacture and delivery, and for the installation and commissioning phase.

Step 4

Equipment Supply

After design approval, equipment delivery will be confirmed. Typically, the ARUs, compressors and automation system will be procured, manufactured and factory tested ready for despatch.

The ARUs will be fabricated to Class approved specifications and delivered with a primer coat. Compressors are oil-free and are designed for marine conditions.

Step 5

System Installation

Following delivery at the installation yard, all equipment is checked to ensure no damage has occurred during transit. Silverstream representatives will be present throughout a retrofit installation in dry dock and at key installation stages for a newbuild project.

Working closely with the installation team, our engineers are available to advise throughout the installation process. Installation timelines vary depending on the duration of a dry dock or newbuild programme.

Step 6

Commissioning

The compressors and automation system will be commissioned by OEM engineers under Silverstream supervision. After the equipment is commissioned, the overall system will be tested with adjustments carried out once the vessel is at sea. As part of this process, crew training will be provided.

At system handover, we provide operating manuals and procedures. After commissioning, remote support is provided by Silverstream’s engineers.

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