Deicing in arctic conditions

**msweet** · June 5th, 2011, 07:44 PM

I have done some research on deicing procedures on arctic vessels. I was surprised to see, at least in the research I have done, how primitive the measure were for ice removal. I found that baseball bats, chainsaws and other hand tools were the primary form of removal.

Can anyone tell me of other procedures used? We are a manufacturer of high pressure rig washdown systems. We can also include deicing features on our systems which include anti-icing agents that are approved for direct release into the sea.

If anyone would like to comment on this matter it would be much appreciated. Where/Who would you suggest I contact to further pursue this effort?

**Capt. Fran** · June 6th, 2011, 09:32 AM

When I was working on a research ship up in the Chukchi Sea, I would always use an Easton Fungo. Of course, that was about 25 years ago, and perhaps they have now upgraded to a Worth Lithium SP.

But seriously, before I were to purchase any deicing system, I would want to see some serious testing of the equipment in harsh conditions. And by what authority was it approved it for direct release into the sea? And if I were you, I would troll the docks in Dutch Harbor and give it to one fishing vessel for free. If it works as advertised, everyone in the fleet will want one.

**New3M** · June 6th, 2011, 11:02 AM

Figure out a way to but hot water into the fire main...I wish I had that when I had all sorts of ice onboard.

**BMCSRetired** · June 6th, 2011, 11:21 AM

For the office, the crew with bats and axe handles will always be more cost effective than a "system", mostly becuz the crew is already there and paid for and a system requires installation, certification and maintenance which costs $$$. Also a system does not care if it works, nor does it care if it capsizes. The crew on the other hand is usually VERY concerned about abandoning ship in icing conditions so it ALWAYS functions if it knows what is good for it.

**msweet** · June 8th, 2011, 07:00 PM

Originally Posted by Capt. Fran

When I was working on a research ship up in the Chukchi Sea, I would always use an Easton Fungo. Of course, that was about 25 years ago, and perhaps they have now upgraded to a Worth Lithium SP.

But seriously, before I were to purchase any deicing system, I would want to see some serious testing of the equipment in harsh conditions. And by what authority was it approved it for direct release into the sea? And if I were you, I would troll the docks in Dutch Harbor and give it to one fishing vessel for free. If it works as advertised, everyone in the fleet will want one.

Capt. Fran, Thank you for your response. The Easton Fungo and the Worth Lithium are quite familiar to me as well...you gotta keep that elbow straight and your head down. I very much appreciate your input. We intend to ask a suitable party to test our system and your advice on direct release is understood. This is a two step process similar to the aviation procedure which includes ice removal and anti-icing treatment. Would you have any specific suggestions for testing (fishing vessel/company that I may pursue?

**msweet** · June 8th, 2011, 07:09 PM

New3M...That is a very interesting idea. I am looking for more information on icing conditions and situations on actic oil rigs and vessels. Do you know any specific companies that are noted for work in these environments?

I appreciate your input. The system we are working on is very similar to the aviation type of de-icing/anti-icing procedure. Our chemical researchers are confident the fluid we are deveolping is approved for direct release into the sea. Our system uses a heat exchanger to heat the water which is used in our high pressure spray. It may be possible to heat water to the fire main....Thanks again for your time and expertise!

**msweet** · June 8th, 2011, 07:11 PM

New3M...That is a very interesting idea. I am looking for more information on icing conditions and situations on actic oil rigs and vessels. Do you know any specific companies that are noted for work in these environments?

I appreciate your input. The system we are working on is very similar to the aviation type of de-icing/anti-icing procedure. Our chemical researchers are confident the fluid we are deveolping is approved for direct release into the sea. Our system uses a heat exchanger to heat the water which is used in our high pressure spray. It may be possible to heat water to the fire main....Thanks again for your time and expertise!

**c.captain** · June 8th, 2011, 08:25 PM

Originally Posted by msweet

I am looking for more information on icing conditions and situations on actic oil rigs and vessels.

You will find considerable research on icing to offshore structures in the Arctic at this link http://www.boemre.gov/tarsafety/ Really good stuff here concerning polar operations.

Happy reading

**msweet** · June 13th, 2011, 05:30 AM

Originally Posted by c.captain

You will find considerable research on icing to offshore structures in the Arctic at this link http://www.boemre.gov/tarsafety/ Really good stuff here concerning polar operations.

Happy reading

Thanks C.captain, I appreciate you reply. Have you personally experienced arctic operations? Can you give me any personal experiences?

Pardon me if I am addressing a 50 year maritime veteran or over-reaching my informational welcome but you never know who you are communicating with in the open forum. We are a company who believes we have a beneficial product for deicing that is acceptable to all environmental regulations

Once again thanks for the information on the website. Your consideration is much appreciated.