Filters in ballast water management systems
We offer testing of filtration units for use in ballast water management systems (BWMS) in accordance with the IMO and U.S. Coast Guard requirements for type approval. The U.S. Coast Guard defines two standard procedures for testing to include an upgraded filter version or a new filter in the existing type approval certificate. Our services support both upgraded and new filter designs in connection with type approval certifications.
Upgraded filter testing is the less comprehensive option, involving two tests of an upgraded filter in each of two water salinities. This comparison testing between the existing and new filter versions verifies performance equivalence and typically includes analyses of water quality parameters and live organisms ≥50 µm. Such testing is required when manufacturers make significant design changes—for example, modifications to mesh geometry, new backwash suction arms, or more compact filter configurations.
Alternate filter testing is the more comprehensive procedure, requiring three tests of a new filter in each of three salinities. Here, the new filter is connected to the BWMS and tested under full type approval requirements.
Manufacturers are welcome to contact us for an initial discussion of testing needs and filter design. We work closely with classification societies and verification bodies—such as Det Norske Veritas (DNV), Lloyd’s Register (LR), Prüfinstitut für Abwassertechnik (PIA), and ETA-Denmark—to ensure robust, internationally recognized testing outcomes.
Key Features
Equivalence between filters can be determined using statistical analyses of filter test results.
Testing can be completed in 1 month (upgraded filters) or 2 months (alternate filters) from installation.
Testing can be performed at our test facility in Denmark or at the manufacturer’s own facility.
Test your filter performance with us
Contact our DHI expert in filter performance testing for more information:
Gitte I. Petersen
gip@dhigroup.com
+45 4516 9312