Saildrone
Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV)
Saildrone. Unmanned Surface Vessel.
The coating performance criteria that needed to be satisfied for our USVs were extensive. CK-426 and Coppercoat were the coatings first chosen and they remain as the exclusive protective products for our vessels.
Project + Year
2022. Liquid Robotics (a Boeing Company) and Saildrone Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV’s)
Project Information
Liquid Robotics and Saildrone are world leaders in ocean going unmanned surface vessel technology
Their USVs range from 3 to 24 metres long
USV uses include ocean floor mapping, current and climate data collection, and maritime security surveillance
Hull Substrates
Uncoated carbon fibre
Uncoated aluminium
Coating Selection
CK 426 Ceramic Infused Two-Part Epoxy Barrier Coating (aluminium hulls only)
Coppercoat Multi-Season Antifoul Coating (carbon and aluminium hulls)
CK 426 and Coppercoat are the only hull coatings used by Liquid Robotics and Saildrone
Selection Criteria
Low Coefficient of Drag
Minimum weight, highly durable, two-part epoxy protection for both hull substrate types
Prevention of fouling for long durations in tropical and near-freezing environments
Non-porous to prevent increased weight and friction in use
Environmental alignment achieved by solvent-free composition and no leeching of biocides
No maintenance intervention requirements for long periods
Comparative Coating Performance
Continued exclusive selection of CK 426 and Coppercoat
Voyages of over 12 months without intervention for maintenance
Over 1,000,000 nautical miles travelled
Over 30,000 days at sea
Performance + Cost Analytics
HullWell’s refined software delivers key information that facilitates accurate decision-making involving underwater surfaces performance and protection.
Project Management
Hullwell safely advances projects through preparation, application and maintenance.