AFTI: The Permanent Boom Specialists

Another system developed in parallel with PyroBoom® is the PocketBoom. This re-design project took an existing and proven Arctic offshore fireproof boom and downsized it to make it more manageable. Knowing that the present inventory of firebooms around the world is insufficient, the industry consortium that funded the project felt that a boom that lines the burn area or "pocket" would be able to extend the useful service life of the present inventory. The boom proved to be durable and easy to handle for such a robust design. The expected service life limit at sea can be measured in months rather than days or hours, or even minutes, for some booms presently in the inventory.

Skimmer development has not been standing still. AFTI affiliate Morris Skimmers International LLC has redesigned the MI-30 to be able to accommodate brush units in place of the discs. At the same time the MI-50, a 50 tonne per hour capacity skimmer, has been introduced to the market. The MI-50 is also planned for a combi-design using spiral helix brushes for maximum efficiency with heavy oils.

The AFTI core business of permanent booming has not been left without development either. The patented AFTI tide slide is finding its way into permanent installation around the world. Many users of AFTI products find that ancillary equipment such as reels, boxes, and miscellaneous deployment accessories make their jobs easier and extend the useful lifetime of their multiple use booms. From "CS" boom to GlobeBoom® to OILFENCE™ and other products, AFTI offers one of the broadest ranges of durable and cost-effective equipment around the world.

The oil spill response industry has not been standing still waiting for the next event to occur. History has shown that despite our best efforts, some event, no matter whether it results from a simple error, negligence, or act of God, is going to occur. The world-wide consolidation of the petroleum industry and the relatively infrequent nature of major spills have left gaps in the organizations that will undoubtedly have to respond. New people to the industry who do not have the long memory of the last event can learn from those of us who have been standing in oil more times than we care to remember. Don't let your guard down, since no amount of engineering is going to replace being prepared for the worst.

  [BACK]   [1 2 3 4 5]    [BACK TO ARTICLES LIST]

  [ABOUT THE AUTHOR]