Minimax extends methanol-ready fire protection for marine bilge applications

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionPorts & MaritimeProducts

Minimax targets methanol engine room risks

Minimax has adapted its Minifog marine XP high-pressure water mist extinguishing system for methanol-fuelled ship engines, with a focus on bilge fire risks in engine rooms.

The company announced the further development from Bad Oldesloe on 2 December 2025.

According to Minimax, the system can now be applied to both pure methanol engines and dual-fuel propulsion arrangements.

The bilge area beneath engine room machinery is identified as a location where flammable liquids can collect and create rapid fire spread.

Minimax states that the updated Minifog marine XP configuration is intended to address new requirements for bilge protection when methanol is used as a marine fuel.

Testing Minifog marine XP against methanol fires

Minimax reports that the methanol-focused version of Minifog marine XP has undergone testing at the company’s in-house fire research centre.

The manufacturer carried out guideline-compliant trials using a standardised replica of an engine room space with methanol fuel present.

Various nozzle configurations were evaluated to understand their performance when controlling and extinguishing real methanol pool fires.

Each test used a 30-second pre-burn period followed by a requirement to extinguish the fire completely within 15 minutes.

Minimax states that the fire tests followed International Maritime Organization (IMO) circular MSC.1/Circ. 1165 for high-pressure water mist systems.

The effectiveness of the Minifog marine XP configuration against methanol fires has been confirmed by Lloyd’s Register, according to the company.

According to Minimax, methanol is considered a future marine fuel option because it produces fewer emissions than diesel or heavy fuel oil.

From a fire protection perspective, the company notes that methanol burns with an almost invisible flame, produces no smoke and has a low flash point that can support rapid fire development.

Foam-based fire protection for bilge areas

Minifog marine XP for methanol applications is supplied with an associated fluorine-free foam concentrate for use in machinery space and bilge protection.

Minimax states that this foam concentrate is less harmful to the environment and aligned with current regulatory expectations on fluorinated substances.

Otto Stoehr, Foam Project Manager, Minimax Fire Solutions International GmbH, linked the system design to the company’s global support capability.

Otto Stoehr, Foam Project Manager, Minimax Fire Solutions International GmbH, said: “Minimax Minifog marine XP fights methanol fires safely and completely.

“In combination with our global service network, you can rely on reliable, sustainable, and high-quality fire protection from the market leader.”

Mathias-Christian Herrmann, Head of Competence Center Marine, Minimax Fire Solutions International GmbH, highlighted the emphasis on performance under regulatory test conditions.

Mathias-Christian Herrmann, Head of Competence Center Marine, Minimax Fire Solutions International GmbH, explained: “Our customers need solutions that work in an emergency case.

“That’s why we test according to international regulations and even go a step further with our systems.

“Research and development are part of our DNA.”

Dr Matthias Prall, Extinguishing System Manager, Minimax GmbH, focused on the behaviour of foam when applied to methanol fires.

Dr Matthias Prall, Extinguishing System Manager, Minimax GmbH, said: “The quality of the foam is crucial.

“In previous tests, we were able to show that water mist is not effective for extinguishing fires in this case.

“We need to form a blanket of foam on the burning material that covers it and then separates it from the oxygen in the air.

“The foam must be able to withstand the aggressive medium.

“Our system has been tested and proven to do this reliably.”

Minimax states that the validated performance of Minifog marine XP in these tests supports its use for bilge protection on methanol engine and dual-fuel ships.

Implications for methanol marine engine safety planning

Methanol-ready high-pressure water mist systems with confirmed performance in bilge areas are directly relevant for marine and shipping fire officers responsible for engine room risk control.

The detailed test procedure, including pre-burn duration and extinguishing time, provides technical context for fire engineering consultants and mechanical and electrical engineers evaluating methanol machinery space solutions.

Information on compliance with International Maritime Organization circular MSC.1/Circ. 1165 gives standards and certification bodies, including organisations in roles similar to Lloyd’s Register, a reference point when reviewing methanol-capable systems.

The use of fluorine-free foam concentrate in Minifog marine XP may inform decisions by equipment specifiers, fire-protection contractors and system installers working on bilge protection for methanol and dual-fuel engines.

By outlining how Minifog marine XP is configured for methanol engines and bilge areas, Minimax provides data for risk assessors and facility managers in marine operations considering future fuel choices and associated fire protection measures.

Consilium and Hyundai advance shipboard fire detection with HiCAMS video technology

by Featured NewsFire DetectionPorts & Maritime

Consilium and Hyundai trial AI cameras at sea

Consilium Safety Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Hyundai Heavy Industries at the Gastech exhibition in Milan to test AI-powered cameras in certified fire alarm systems on ships.

The agreement focuses on Hyundai’s HiCAMS video technology, which uses cameras to identify smoke and flames within shipboard fire detection functions.

According to Consilium, the collaboration is among the first initiatives to apply camera-based detection directly to maritime fire alarm systems.

A pilot test is already underway on the test vessel Sawasdee Sunrise in Korea.

During this pilot, HiCAMS has been connected to Consilium’s Safety Management Interface Graphics platform, with initial work concentrating on smoke and flame detection.

AI fire detection trial on container vessels

Consilium said one of the earliest operational uses of the combined system is expected on container vessels.

The company’s Temperature Monitoring System currently tracks heat build-up in containers stored below deck.

HiCAMS is being introduced to monitor cargo stacked above deck for the first signs of smoke.

Together, the systems are intended to extend detection coverage across both below-deck and above-deck container areas on participating vessels, according to the company.

Wider applications and path to certification

Thobias Ernfridsson, Chief Technology Officer at Consilium Safety Group, said: “There is strong interest in combining proven systems like TMS with new detection methods for areas where additional coverage is needed.

“Working with Hyundai on HiCAMS, a proven video-based fire detection technology, we aim to demonstrate its potential as a key component of certified fire alarm systems for maritime safety.

“Large, open spaces such as vehicle decks on ferries, atriums on cruise ships, or even shopping malls and warehouses present challenges for traditional smoke detectors, which often only react once smoke has reached ceiling level.

“Camera-based detection can monitor a much larger volume and provide earlier warnings in such environments.

“This is a natural next step, giving us the chance to explore new ways of improving safety together.”

Consilium noted that camera-based detection is already emerging in other sectors, but that this initiative is focused directly on marine applications.

The company stated that the next step for the partnership is to open dialogue with a classification society to obtain an Approval in Principle for the technology.

Such an Approval in Principle would confirm that HiCAMS is considered viable for use within a certified fire alarm system and would allow the partners to progress towards a full proof-of-concept for shipboard use.

Operational impact for marine and infrastructure safety teams

Marine and shipping fire officers may use findings from the Sawasdee Sunrise pilot to assess whether camera-based smoke and flame detection can support shipboard fire alarm strategies on container vessels and other ship types.

Equipment specifiers and procurement officers in the marine sector could gain new options for combining temperature monitoring below deck with visual monitoring above deck when specifying integrated fire alarm systems.

Standards and certification bodies will be directly involved once Consilium Safety Group and Hyundai Heavy Industries engage with a classification society to seek Approval in Principle for integrating HiCAMS into certified fire alarm systems.

System installers, fire-protection contractors and fire engineers working with large open spaces, such as vehicle decks or atriums, may track this trial as camera-based detection becomes more closely aligned with formal marine fire detection and alarm requirements.

Survitec XChange Programme earns repeat IBJ recognition for marine safety performance

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyPorts & MaritimeSafety

Survitec recognised for XChange Programme at IBJ Awards

Survitec, a survival technology company, has won the Safety in Bulk Handling (Marine) category at the International Bulk Journal Awards for its XChange Programme, a service-led model for managing liferafts and immersion suits across the global shipping industry.

According to Survitec, the judges highlighted the programme’s focus on service delivery and its impact on safety, logistics and environmental performance.

Judges for the International Bulk Journal Awards described the XChange Programme as: “service-led innovation transforming how marine safety equipment is managed across the global shipping industry.

“The programme is setting a new standard in maritime safety, logistics, and sustainability.”

Metkel Yohannes, Director of Product and Solutions at Survitec, said: “This award is a testament to the dedication of our team and the trust our customers place in Survitec.

“XChange is not just an operational solution; it is a strategic advantage that sets new benchmarks for operators across the maritime industry.

“Since its launch, the programme has demonstrated clear market acceptance and operational value.

“XChange has grown to serve vessels across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, maintaining an average renewal rate of 95%.

“Operators consistently cite cost control, the removal of downtime, and full compliance management as the primary reasons for adopting the programme.”

Service-led model replaces traditional ownership and servicing

Survitec explained that the XChange Programme replaces conventional ownership and servicing arrangements with a flexible model based on ready-to-use liferafts and immersion suits supplied and exchanged in port.

Under this approach, equipment is delivered in a fully compliant state and swapped during port calls, rather than being taken out of service for inspection or recertification.

The company reported that this removes the uncertainty associated with traditional servicing, where operators may face delays ranging from six to 48 hours while equipment is checked and approved.

Survitec stated that vessels enrolled in XChange always sail with fully certified equipment, while the company manages compliance schedules, logistics and rotation of assets.

According to the company, this allows operators to maintain focus on vessel operations while Survitec oversees inspection intervals and certification requirements.

Addressing downtime, compliance and administrative burden

Survitec noted that ship operators have historically faced unpredictable downtime, servicing bottlenecks and expiring certificates when working with conventional safety-equipment ownership models.

The company added that these issues have been compounded by the environmental impact of prematurely disposing of equipment that still has serviceable life.

The XChange model was developed to address these pressures by offering clear contract terms and centralised compliance tracking for participating fleets.

Survitec said the programme provides immediate access to fully certified liferafts and immersion suits at major global ports through its service network.

This availability is intended to reduce administrative workload on crew, who can concentrate on vessel performance rather than managing safety-equipment scheduling and documentation.

Circular-economy design and environmental outcomes

According to Survitec, customers have responded positively to the programme’s circular-economy design.

Instead of discarding equipment at the end of a service period, Survitec refurbishes, recertifies and redeploys assets through its service centres.

The company stated that this extends the working life of liferafts and immersion suits and reduces the amount of material sent to landfill, while maintaining full compliance with SOLAS requirements.

Survitec added that the XChange model also cuts emissions linked to unnecessary shipping movements and port congestion.

Exchanges are planned and coordinated within existing port calls, which removes the need for vessels to deviate from their operating schedules to meet servicing windows.

Second consecutive Safety in Bulk Handling recognition

Survitec confirmed that David Montgomery, Head of Sales (UK), accepted the Safety in Bulk Handling (Marine) award at the ceremony in Liverpool.

The company stated that this is the second year in succession that it has taken this category at the International Bulk Journal Awards.

In 2024, Survitec received the same award for “Why Are the Fires Not Going Out? Unveiling the True Cost of Inadequate Fire Safety Inspections,” a white paper on failures in fire safety practices and the resulting rise in shipboard fire incidents worldwide.

Operational meaning for marine safety and equipment management

Marine and shipping fire officers may use information about the XChange Programme to assess how liferaft and immersion-suit management models affect vessel readiness and compliance with SOLAS requirements.

Procurement officers and equipment specifiers working with bulk carriers and wider merchant fleets can review the reported 95% renewal rate and global coverage across Europe, Asia and the Americas when considering contract structures for safety equipment.

Risk assessors and fire engineering consultants can factor the removal of six to 48 hour servicing delays into assessments of available safety systems during port calls and alongside time.

Facility managers responsible for fleet-wide safety-equipment planning may reference the centralised compliance tracking and pre-planned exchanges described by Survitec when comparing ownership-based and service-led approaches.

For system installers and service partners, the circular-economy design based on refurbishment, recertification and redeployment through Survitec’s service network provides a practical example of how asset lifecycles and waste reduction can be integrated into marine safety-equipment programmes.

Why Jotun’s latest fire protection system matters for the energy sector’s future

by Breaking NewsIndustrialIndustry SectorsPorts & Maritime

Jotun launches new coating to advance fire protection

Jotun has introduced Jotachar 1709XT, a new passive fire-protection coating designed to protect steel structures under extreme conditions.

The company announced the launch during ADIPEC 2025 as part of its ongoing commitment to improving safety, efficiency and sustainability in energy infrastructure.

According to Jotun, the coating was developed through a global research, testing and certification programme and is now produced in Oman alongside the full Jotachar range.

The manufacturer said this strengthens its ability to meet regional demand for high-performance, locally manufactured fire-protection systems.

Designed to protect infrastructure and extend asset lifespan

Jotun stated that maintaining steel integrity remains central to its mission of protecting people, assets and the environment.

By maintaining structural stability during fire exposure, Jotachar 1709XT helps prevent collapse, supports evacuation and reduces lifecycle emissions from steel replacement.

The company added that the coating contributes to sustainability targets by extending the lifespan of energy infrastructure and limiting waste from maintenance activities.

Andy Czainsky, Global Category Manager – Fire Protection at Jotun, said: “The energy industry is under pressure to enhance safety while reducing environmental impact.

“Every ton of steel that remains in service represents carbon saving.

“Jotachar 1709XT allows asset owners to meet both objectives – ensuring protection and extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure.”

Tested for performance and certified for hydrocarbon fires

Jotun reported that the new product underwent an extensive testing and certification programme covering over one kilometre of coated steel and 35,000 kilograms of material.

Its patent-pending formulation was certified to UL 1709 standards for hydrocarbon fire and explosion conditions.

The company explained that the coating demonstrates high mechanical strength, fast film build and improved workability at elevated temperatures.

These features support application efficiency and long-term performance in high-risk energy environments.

Strengthening Gulf operations through local production

Jotun confirmed that manufacturing the Jotachar range in Oman represents a key step in improving operational efficiency across the Gulf region.

The facility has an annual capacity of 2.4 million litres, allowing the company to reduce lead times and provide faster supply to local energy projects.

By localising production, Jotun said it can deliver coatings to customers more rapidly while maintaining product quality and consistency.

Ahmad Mohammad, Managing Director – Jotun Saudi Arabia, said: “By manufacturing the Jotachar range in Oman, we’re able to support the Gulf energy sector more efficiently with a proven technology engineered for local conditions.”

The company noted that regional customers also benefit from Jotun’s Certified Applicator Scheme, inspection guidance and Fire Engineering Services, which include loading calculations and passive fire-protection weight optimisation.

Relevance for energy and fire engineering professionals

The launch of Jotachar 1709XT introduces a new option for engineers, fire-protection specialists and asset owners seeking to improve passive fire performance in oil, gas and industrial infrastructure.

By maintaining structural integrity under hydrocarbon fire exposure, the coating supports the objectives of fire engineers, design consultants and safety officers involved in specifying protection for high-hazard environments.

For procurement and maintenance teams, the product’s local production in Oman shortens delivery times and increases availability across Gulf projects.

Certification to UL 1709 standards also ensures compliance assurance for those overseeing safety-critical facilities.

The combination of regional manufacturing, extended asset lifespan and verified performance creates direct operational and safety benefits for energy-sector stakeholders.

Survitec launches marine foam system reducing installation and service costs

by Breaking NewsFire SuppressionPorts & Maritime

Survitec introduces high-expansion foam system for marine fire safety

Survitec has launched its next-generation high-expansion foam fire suppression system, designed to deliver greater foam output at lower operating pressures.

According to the company, the new system reduces both installation and through-life costs for shipyards and shipowners.

The development centres on a redesigned generator that produces higher volumes of foam at significantly lower feed pressures.

Survitec said this advancement addresses one of the main constraints in foam system performance, where high pump and water pressure demands have traditionally increased both equipment and operational costs.

Lower pressure improves cost efficiency

Maciej Nieścioruk, Product Manager for Foam and Clean Agent Systems at Survitec, said: “Lowering pressure was our number one objective.”

“It also allows us to reduce the load on pumps and other supporting components, lowering the total cost of ownership.”

He explained that the team achieved the reduction by optimising nozzle alignment, adding new moving parts to create rotary momentum, and improving airflow through the system.

Nieścioruk said: “The performance of the new generator means fewer units are required to produce the same volume of foam.”

“That reduction translates into tangible benefits in terms of reducing capital and installation costs.

“When combined with the lower pressure demands, this gives shipowners a system that is lighter, more efficient, and easier to service, without compromising fire safety.”

Validation and system design features

Survitec confirmed that validation testing was completed in partnership with DNV.

Results showed stable expansion ratios and reliable discharge performance across system configurations.

The new generator includes several design improvements to increase efficiency and minimise overall size.

The optimised nozzle alignment eliminates blind spots within the generator net to maximise foam output.

A rotary element enhances discharge efficiency, while a re-engineered impeller draws in more air and distributes the foam solution more evenly.

According to Survitec, this combination enables higher and more consistent expansion at reduced pressure.

Flexible deployment across vessel types

The company said the system can be used as a total flooding solution for machinery spaces on gas carriers and tankers, as well as for RORO spaces on Pure Car Carriers (PCCs).

It supports both remote and manual deployment at the skid.

Survitec added that the system is fluorine-free by design, aligning with upcoming environmental regulations.

Replacement foam concentrates are available globally through the company’s service network.

Nieścioruk said: “We work alongside shipyards and owners to verify pump and pipework compatibility, and manage approvals with class to safeguard both compliance and operational integrity.”

Availability at Kormarine 2025

Survitec will present the high-expansion foam system at Kormarine, taking place in Busan, Korea, from 21–24 October 2025.

The company will exhibit at stand 1G45 in Center 1.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The introduction of Survitec’s high-expansion foam system holds relevance for shipyard engineers, marine fire officers and vessel operators responsible for onboard fire suppression infrastructure.

By operating at lower pressures, the system can reduce pump requirements and simplify installation, which may help engineers meet performance specifications with smaller and more efficient layouts.

For shipowners and operators, the DNV validation provides assurance of compliance and reliability for machinery and RORO spaces on tankers and carriers.

The fluorine-free formulation also supports future compliance with environmental regulations governing foam concentrates.

The system’s flexibility for both remote and manual activation makes it applicable to a range of vessel types where total flooding protection is required.

India mandates CCTV on ships to strengthen maritime safety

by Featured NewsPorts & MaritimeSafety

India introduces new maritime safety rules

Zelim has reported that India’s Directorate General of Shipping has issued regulations requiring Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems to be installed on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more.

According to Zelim, the notice applies to both newbuild and existing Indian-flagged vessels, and extends as a recommendation to foreign-flagged ships calling at Indian ports.

It explained that compliance must be achieved by 12 February 2028 or at the vessel’s next classification renewal survey, whichever occurs later.

The company noted that India’s action follows several high-profile incidents involving crew disappearances, man-overboard cases, and collisions.

Zelim stated that the Indian government has pointed to delayed emergency response and reduced search and rescue (SAR) effectiveness in the absence of real-time situational awareness technologies.

CCTV coverage and technical specifications

According to Zelim, the Directorate General of Shipping has detailed specifications for camera placement and performance.

It reported that CCTV should cover the main deck, forecastle, mooring and stern areas, bridge, and superstructure.

The organisation advised that the specifications include requirements for night vision, resolution, positioning, and data storage.

It explained that these measures are intended to provide consistent and reliable oversight of shipboard activity.

The company said the directorate also recommended the use of AI-enabled software to strengthen monitoring capabilities.

Zelim’s position on international adoption

Zelim stated that India’s decision represents a model that other International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states should consider adopting.

It said that voluntary measures in maritime safety are no longer adequate.

The company explained that global adoption of consistent standards would improve safety for seafarers and ensure more reliable responses to shipboard incidents.

It added that aviation has integrated advanced situational awareness technologies for many years, while maritime has moved more slowly.

The group suggested that India’s decision could serve as a catalyst for broader regulatory change.

Quotes from Zelim leadership

Sam Mayall, Chief Executive Officer of Zelim, said: “This is a landmark decision from India’s maritime authorities and signals a step change in maritime safety thinking. By mandating smarter monitoring systems, India is setting a powerful example that other maritime nations should follow.”

Stewart Gregory, Chief Operating Officer of Zelim, said: “India has raised the bar for ship and crew safety, not just by mandating CCTV but in setting out a comprehensive specification for camera coverage, night vision, resolution, placement, and data storage. This is about more than surveillance; it’s about smart, intelligent, AI-based detection, tracking and alerting technology fully integrated into a ship’s safety protocols. India’s regulation goes significantly beyond current IMO requirements.”

Gregory added: “The maritime industry has lagged behind sectors like aviation when it comes to adopting advanced safety technologies. With proven situational awareness technology already available – capable of improving both incident prevention and response – a global situational awareness standard is long overdue. India’s directive should act as a catalyst for other nations to adopt similar measures.”

Zelim’s technology and support role

According to Zelim, its AI-powered monitoring systems can extend the benefits of India’s CCTV mandate by improving real-time prevention of incidents and supplying forensic evidence for investigations.

The company said that these technologies are designed to assist with accident prevention and support SAR operations.

It added that the systems also help deter criminal activities onboard vessels.

The business explained that it is already in direct contact with Indian authorities, including the Directorate General of Shipping and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

It stated that it has offered technical support to ship owners and operators seeking to meet the new specifications.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

India’s CCTV mandate highlights how national authorities can require safety technologies that directly affect operational practice.

For fire and safety professionals, this development shows the value of mandatory standards in improving situational awareness and incident response.

It also underlines the role of integrated monitoring systems in supporting emergency planning and regulatory compliance.

The adoption of similar standards internationally could influence safety protocols across other high-risk sectors.

India mandates CCTV on ships to strengthen maritime safety: Summary

India’s Directorate General of Shipping has introduced rules mandating CCTV on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more.

The regulation applies to Indian-flagged vessels and recommends coverage for foreign-flagged ships visiting Indian ports.

Ships must comply by 12 February 2028 or at the next classification renewal survey.

Zelim reported that the regulations specify placement, night vision, resolution, and data storage requirements.

India has cited incidents where lack of real-time monitoring hindered emergency response and search and rescue.

The directorate has recommended the use of AI-enabled software to enhance monitoring.

Zelim’s Chief Executive Officer Sam Mayall welcomed the decision as a landmark for maritime safety.

Chief Operating Officer Stewart Gregory said the regulation goes beyond current IMO requirements.

Zelim believes voluntary measures are insufficient and has urged global adoption of consistent standards.

The company is working with Indian authorities and offering technical support to ship operators.