Hempel is expanding its Hempaguard range of hull coatings with the launch of Hempaguard NB – described as a breakthrough high-performance silicone hull coating, designed specifically for newbuild vessels.
For what is said to be the first time, shipowners and shipyards can access Hempaguard’s fuel savings and fouling protection during the construction phase, which the company believes marks a major step forward in hull coating innovation. Until now, applying advanced silicone coatings during the newbuilding process posed logistical challenges for shipowners. Conventional silicone solutions require controlled environments and are typically applied either pre-delivery or in post-delivery dry dockings, both of which cause delays and additional costs.
Alexander Enström, EVP and Head of Marine, Hempel, said: “Hempaguard NB brings the industry’s most advanced silicone hull coating technology, proven to deliver significant fuel savings and reduce emissions, into the newbuilding phase for the very first time. Developing Hempaguard NB meant reimagining how silicone coatings are formulated for the construction phase, delivering a solution that maintains long-term performance without the need for post-delivery application. It’s a technical breakthrough that ensures vessels are equipped with proven, high-efficiency fouling protection from the very first day at sea.”
It combines the performance of Hempaguard X7 with a new silicone topcoat, made specifically for newbuilds. This means that it offers the same performance as Hempaguard X7 – with nearly 5,000 applications and independently verified for its fuel-saving and decarbonisation benefits. The company says that shipowners can expect up to 20% fuel savings, only 1.2% average speed loss and 120 fouling-free idle days. Not only does this give customers premium performance straight out of dock, but also a long-term asset for operational efficiency and regulatory compliance, unlocking the full potential of silicone coatings for newbuilds and giving shipyards a competitive edge.
Hempaguard NB plays a part in Hempel’s Full Picture Hull Management approach – a comprehensive, data-driven perspective to hull performance, shaped by long experience and close collaboration with the maritime industry.
Image: Hempaguard NB silicon coating is designed to be applied during construction (source: Hempel)
