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Ballast Water Treatment System

Close-up image of a ship releasing ballast water through a side outlet while docked in port

Ballast Water Treatment Systems: A Turnkey Solution by Synergy Marine Group

Ballast water plays a critical role in maintaining vessel trim and stability, but it can also pose a risk to marine biodiversity by allowing invasive species to migrate across ecosystems. With the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Ballast Water Management Convention and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations now fully in force, installing and operating a compliant ballast water treatment system (BWTS) has become essential for vessel owners worldwide.

Synergy Marine Group offers fully integrated BWTS solutions that help vessels meet global environmental regulations without compromising operational efficiency. From early-stage evaluation through installation and lifecycle support, our approach prioritises regulatory alignment, operational clarity and minimal disruption to maritime schedules.

Tailored End-to-End Services

Our services are divided into four core stages, designed to guide shipowners along a seamless retrofit journey:

  1. Evaluation and System Selection

Every successful BWTS retrofit begins with selecting the right system. Synergy assists shipowners by evaluating available technologies and matching them to the vessel’s trading profile, ballast capacity and space constraints. We provide:

  • Technology Guidance: UV, electrochlorination, chemical and mechanical systems—all assessed against operational demands;
  • Quotation Appraisal: Independent evaluation of vendor proposals based on technical features, cost and long-term performance;
  • Cost Modelling: Transparent CAPEX and OPEX breakdowns to support decision-making on the immediate and longer-term financial impacts;
  • Regulatory Planning: Ensuring type-approval compliance with IMO D-2 standards and USCG requirements, aligned with drydock schedules or IOPP renewal dates.
  1. Survey and 3D Laser Scanning
After selection, we conduct a detailed survey and 3D laser scan, in order to capture spatial data with millimetre precision. This stage includes:
  • Onboard Inspection: Evaluation of ballast piping, electrical systems and structural layout;
  • 3D Digital Modelling: Creation of a high-resolution point cloud model to guide virtual design integration;
  • Scenario Planning: Identification of multiple layout options, considering accessibility, maintainability and safety.
  • Feasibility Report: A structured technical document outlining preferred installation approaches, resource needs and integration risks.
  1. Engineering Feasibility and Class Drawings

Synergy’s engineering team then translates the 3D scan data into executable retrofit plans:

  • 3D System Integration: We first simulate installation by modelling the BWTS components—such as filters, reactors and pumps—within the scanned model of the vessel;
  • Feasibility Study: Evaluation of space, load, cable runs and system operability;
  • Class Approval Documents: Preparation of P&ID diagrams, general arrangement and compliance drawings for approval by classification societies.
  • Project Scheduling: Coordination of installation timelines, resourcing, and alignment with operational constraints.
  1. Prefabrication and Final Installation
Once approved, we move into prefabrication and execution planning:
  • Final Installation Drawings: Isometrics and work packages are provided to shipyards or riding crews;
  • Prefabricated Piping and Supports: Components are built in advance to reduce onboard work and shorten drydock duration;
  • Equipment Procurement: Delivery and installation of all BWTS machinery and auxiliary items with type-approval certification.

Commissioning, Training and Lifecycle Support
Our role can continue beyond installation, as we are often asked to oversee commissioning, testing and training:

  • System Commissioning: Functional and biological performance testing as part of the classification society survey;
  • Crew Training: Hands-on sessions covering operation, alarms, maintenance and compliance logging;
  • Maintenance Planning: Scheduled inspections and spare part strategies for continued performance;
  • Compliance Support: Ongoing guidance to ensure readiness for PSC inspections and adherence to evolving IMO guidelines.


Why Choose Synergy?

  • Global Regulatory Compliance: Fully aligned with IMO, USCG and class requirements.
  • Integrated Project Management: From evaluation to final handover, and all managed under a single point of responsibility;
  • Engineering Precision: Advanced tools like 3D scanning and digital modelling minimise installation risks;
  • Efficiency: Prefabrication and precise planning reduce downtime and cost;
  • Operator Familiarisation and Support: We prioritise crew readiness and operational familiarity with the system.


Delivering Compliance with Confidence

Whether you are upgrading a legacy system or installing a solution on a newbuild, Synergy Marine Group offers BWTS services that unite engineering precision with regulatory insight. With a global presence and proven execution capabilities, we support your environmental compliance every step of the way.

Helping Protect Marine Ecosystems through Practical and Compliant Solutions.

A diagram showing the four-stage cycle of ballast water use on ships, from taking on water while unloading cargo to discharging it when loading at the next port

Frequently Asked Questions

We provide support for UV, electrochlorination, chemical and mechanical treatment systems. The choice depends on your vessel’s design, trading routes and compliance needs.

In certain cases, yes. We offer flexible installation options, including riding squads, depending on system complexity and class requirements.

Depending on vessel type and installation scope, drydock installation typically ranges from 5 to 10 days. However, prefabrication and detailed planning can sometimes significantly reduce that.

Yes. We provide onboard, hands-on training as part of the commissioning process, including operational best practices and compliance logging.

We deliver all class drawings, manuals, updated ballast water management plans, and support during inspections or audits.

Absolutely. Our engineering and compliance teams coordinate with classification societies and flag states to ensure that all approvals are in place.

Yes. With a global footprint and experience across vessel types, we are equipped to execute multi-vessel, multi-region BWTS programmes with standardised documentation and execution planning.

Other Services

Ship Management Service 2.0

Ship Management Services

Vessel Accounting

Vessel Accounting

Ship crew management

Ship Crew Management

Marine Information Technology

Maritime Information Technology

European Union Emissions Trading Scheme

EU ETS Compliance

Aerial View of Synergy Group-managed vessel undergoing repair and maintenance at dry dock

Dry Docking

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1 Kim Seng Promenade
#10-11/12 Great World City West Tower,
Singapore – 237994

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Synergy Marine Group is a member of

Getting to Zero Coalition
MACN
Intercargo
IMEC
IMPA SAVE
All Aboard Alliance
CSSF
Danish Shipping
Synergy Logo

Getting to Zero

Synergy Marine Group is a member of The Getting to Zero Coalition, dedicated to launching zero-emission deep-sea vessels by 2030 and achieving full decarbonisation by 2050. The Global Maritime Forum, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum and Friends of Ocean Action, founded and manages the Coalition.

MACN

Synergy Marine Group is part of the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN), a global initiative striving for a corruption-free maritime industry, promoting fair trade for the greater societal good.

INTERCARGO

Synergy Marine Group is a part of INTERCARGO, an association championing safe, efficient, and eco-friendly shipping. INTERCARGO collaborates with the International Maritime Organization and other global entities to shape maritime legislation.

IMEC

Synergy Marine Group is part of IMEC, a top maritime employers’ group championing fair and sustainable labor practices. Representing global employers, IMEC negotiates seafarers’ wages and conditions, and invests in workforce development.

IMPA

Synergy Marine Group is involved in IMPA Save’s initiative to reduce single-use water bottles at sea. The IMPA SAVE council comprises top global shipowners and suppliers, representing over 8000 vessels with significant combined purchasing influence.

All Aboard

Synergy Marine Group is a key participant in The All Aboard Alliance’s Diversity@Sea initiative. As one of eleven prominent maritime companies, we aim to foster inclusivity at sea and directly address challenges faced by women seafarers.

CSSF

Synergy Marine Group is part of the Container Ship Safety Forum (CSSF), a global B2B network dedicated to enhancing safety and management standards in the container shipping sector.

Danish Shipping

Synergy Marine Group is affiliated with Danske Rederier, the primary industry and employers’ association for Danish shipping—Denmark’s top export sector. Danske Rederier actively engages with authorities and policymakers both domestically and globally.