In-Water Hull Cleaning Sampling Device

Device measures potential contamination prior to in-water cleanings. Background Watercraft hulls are covered with chemical anti-fouling coatings to reduce biological growth on their surfaces, which increase drag and raise fuel consumption. Typical cleaning methods are use abrasive materials to rub against toxic hull coatings, releasing several toxins into coastal waterways. Some environmental regulations do not allow in-water cleanings. based on types and levels of materials released during the cleaning operation. If in-water cleanings are prohibited, cleanings must be conducted in dry docks which are expensive and not readily available. Sampling the types and levels of contaminants prior to cleaning can reduce costs by determining if the use of expensive dry dock cleaning procedures are unnecessary. The Technology SSC Pacific has developed a sampling method and device that attaches to a watercraft's hull and creates a watertight seal. It then simulates in-water hull cleaning with variable pressure and rotation to accurately simulate different cleaning procedures. Contaminants that are removed from the hull during simulated cleaning are contained in the device's sample chamber for measurement and testing. This provides valuable information about amount and types of materials that would be released into waterways to determine whether the procedure meets environmental regulations. Benefits Ability to seal chamber and remove contaminated water sample after use to avoid releasing contaminants into water Variable test pressure and cleaning pad material to accurately simulate different cleaning procedures Ability to test water inside chamber and display results on external LCD or LED display or store data on a hard drive Many power options including electric, gas, battery, and hand or foot crank