MGPS systems and accessories

Marine Growth Prevention Systems (MGPS), also known as Antifouling systems usually consist of pairs of Copper and /Iron anodes, mounted in sea chests or strainers and connected to a control panel. Where Cupro-Nickel pipe work is used on board, a ferrous( Iron) anode is used and for Mild steel Pipelines Aluminium anode is the anode used.

In operation, the copper anode produces ions which are carried by the flow of seawater, creating an environment where barnacles and mussels will not settle or multiply.

By introducing copper ions in very small concentrations, around two parts per billion, the system interrupts the settlement sequence of mussel and barnacle larvae. Instead of adhering to the surface of sea chests, strainers, and pipe work, the larvae pass harmlessly through the cooling water system to the discharge point.

Without antifouling protection, pipes can become encrusted with organisms, leading to a blockage which reduces the efficiency of the seawater cooling system.

MGPS systems from SVM are completely modular s with one module controlling a pair of anodes. The anodes can be supplied complete with suitable cofferdams for either mounting in sea chests or on strainer lids. They come with a unique ANODE LIFE TIME INDICATING feature that alerts the user when anodes need replacement & an additional feature that automatically reduces current to the anode when there is no flow of water. SVM can also design and recommend a suitable system given the necessary parameters.

MGPS IS A DUAL ACTION SYSTEM:

The action of the Copper ions is assisted by Aluminium/ Iron Hydroxide that is created by the Aluminium/Iron anodes flocculating the released Copper from the Copper anodes.

This highly gelatinous Copper-Aluminium/Iron Hydroxide Floc is carried throughout the system and tends to spread into the slow-moving areas close to the pipe surfaces, where marine larvae are most likely to settle. As a result, the larvae instead pass directly to discharge.

At the same time, a Cupro-Aluminum/Cupro Ferric film builds up on the internal surfaces of the pipes to suppress corrosion. In this way the system has a dual action, protecting seawater pipe work against both Bio fouling and Corrosion.