MUR Shipping and Cathelco trial USP DragGone™ on African Griffon as part of a layered biofouling strategy

MUR Shipping and Dockendale are known for their forward-looking approach to operational efficiency and vessel upkeep. With a modern fleet and an emphasis on long-term asset performance, the companies continuously explore solutions that support their standards for clean hulls, reduced maintenance needs, and overall sustainability.

In late 2024, African Griffon, a bulk carrier owned and operated by MUR Shipping/Dockendale, decided to trial Cathelco’s latest non-toxic antifouling solution: the USP DragGone™ ultrasonic system. Installed using a two-quad system, the system went into operation in October 2024.

At the time of writing the system has been running continuously for approximately eight months. During this time, the vessel has followed a range of trading patterns across temperate and tropical waters, with operational data and conditions closely monitored by the team.

Technology in context: Part of a broader strategy

Instead of relying on just one type of protection, forward-thinking companies like MUR Shipping are combining different systems, like antifouling paint and ultrasonic technology, to keep their hulls cleaner in all kinds of conditions. This helps reduce how often they need to clean the hull and can also improve fuel efficiency over time.

Trials like this one are valuable because they don’t just show how one solution performs, they can also give useful insights into how well different technologies work together as part of a bigger strategy. More and more operators are starting to see biofouling not just as a maintenance task, but as an important part of overall vessel performance.

Installation and ease of integration

One of the key benefits of the USP DragGone system is its flexible installation. While the African Griffon installation was carried out during dry dock, the system is designed to be installed without dry docking or hull penetrations, so the system can be installed without needing to take the vessel out of service.

This flexibility makes it easier to install the system across an entire fleet, even on ships that aren’t scheduled for dry dock or are mid-way through their hull coating lifecycle.

DragGone’s internal hull-mounted transducers require no structural modifications or classification approval, which allows operators to install the system quickly and with minimal disruption.

In this trial, a two quad unit was strategically positioned in the engine room at the AFT of the vessel mid-way between the water line and base line to allow for easy installation and to provide optimum biofouling protection.

Tracking real-world performance

Eight months into the trial, diver inspections have been conducted to assess hull condition. Early visual reports indicate positive outcomes, with clean hull sections noted.

Because the vessel’s recent trading routes have not included long idle periods in warm-waters, MUR Shipping and Dockendale are planning to continue monitoring the system over the coming months to gather additional operational insights.

Importantly, the teams are taking a long-term view, recognising that antifouling effectiveness depends on many factors, including voyage profiles, water temperatures, and vessel activity patterns.

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Looking ahead: Evidence-based operations

MUR shipping and Dockendale have expressed interest in continuing the trial period to observe results under different operating conditions, including warmer climates and longer port stays.

Rather than rushing to conclusions, the companies are committed to gathering meaningful operational data to assess how ultrasonic antifouling fits into their broader maintenance and performance strategies.

Cathelco will continue to support this evaluation process, providing data analysis, service support, and further system optimisation as needed.

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