The Future of Maritime Retrofits: A Partnership Between OEMs and Retrofit Service Providers

The Future of Maritime Retrofits: A Partnership Between OEMs and Retrofit Service Providers

GLO Marine has always believed in the power of strong, collaborative partnerships to drive success in the maritime industry. One such partnership that has significantly contributed to our mutual growth is with BIO-SEA by BIO-UV Group. Together, we work towards assisting vessel owners in complying with essential Ballast Water Management regulations. Maxime Dedeurwaerder, Business Unit Director for BIO-SEA, provides a detailed account of our collaborative efforts and the impact of our joint initiatives on client satisfaction and project success. 

Testimonial from Maxime Dedeurwaerder, Business Unit Director for BIO-SEA by BIO-UV Group 

“In my role as Business Unit Director for BIO-SEA by BIO-UV Group, I’ve had the valuable opportunity to work alongside GLO Marine in our shared mission to assist vessel owners in meeting Ballast Water Management regulations. Our objective is to design and supply ballast water treatment systems with a lifecycle approach, ensuring high-quality support from the project stage through to operation and maintenance. 

Apart from the quality of the equipment, the success of retrofit projects heavily relies on precise execution, where GLO Marine has shown considerable expertise. This is an area where GLO Marine excels. Over the years, GLO Marine has been involved in over 40 engineering projects for BIO-SEA systems and more than 20 complete retrofit jobs, managing everything from design and prefabrication to procurement and installation. This comprehensive approach has streamlined our projects, reduced costs, and eliminated the need for multiple subcontractors, resulting in more efficient and timely project completions.  

Our clients have consistently praised GLO Marine’s precise engineering and installation work. Their thorough support during installation enhances the overall efficiency and reliability of our systems in operation. This attention to detail and dedication to quality has significantly contributed to our clients’ satisfaction and the overall success of our projects. 

Collaborating with GLO Marine has greatly enhanced the service we provide to our clients, ensuring the effective operation of our equipment. In today’s maritime industry, the role of retrofit service providers is becoming increasingly crucial. Providers like GLO Marine, with their deep understanding of both the equipment and the vessels, are essential partners in the retrofit and upgrade process. Vessel owners are increasingly recognizing the value of working with integrated service providers who offer comprehensive solutions. 

I am grateful for the partnership we have established with GLO Marine and look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future.” 

Maxime Dedeurwaerder 

Business Unit Director for BIO-SEA by BIO-UV Group 

 GLO MARINE – an integrated vessel upgrade partner 

 As an external vessel upgrade partner, GLO Marine provides turnkey solutions for all vessel modifications and upgrades. From project design to installation and compliance, we focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness, offering a streamlined, single point of contact strategy. This allows our clients to concentrate on their core operations while we manage the complexities of the projects. 

To learn more about our work and see the impact of our collaboration with BIO-SEA by BIO-UV Group, visit the Projects section on the GLO Marine website.  

GLO Marine Secures a Strategic Contract with BLUEWATER for FPSO Haewene Brim Marine Hydraulic System Upgrade

GLO Marine Secures a Strategic Contract with BLUEWATER

Following a solid streak of successful retrofits, mobilizations and vessel upgrade projects performed in the offshore industry, GLO Marine has been appointed by BLUEWATER, a technological leader in the design, development, lease, and operation of Floating Production and Energy Systems (FPSOs), to conduct a comprehensive technical analysis, feasibility study and update of engineering documentation for the upgrade of the Primary Hydraulic Services onboard the FPSO Haewene Brim, an essential asset in BLUEWATER&’s fleet.

BLUEWATER, who is a well-known player in the market of operational and logistic management and support for offshore Production and Energy Systems, has entrusted GLO Marine with an important role in securing the future operational efficiency of the FPSO Haewene Brim. The scope of this collaboration encompasses a series of tasks aimed at optimizing the vessel’s marine hydraulic system performance and sustainability.

The project kicks off with a 16-week intensive feasibility and engineering phase, where GLO Marine, along with its key partners, will tackle the project that involves several disciplines such as hydraulic engineering, piping, electrical, and software integration. GLO Marine’s responsibility extends beyond technical analysis to include program management, stakeholder management, and consultancy, ensuring a holistic approach to the project. The technical expertise of GLO Marine and strategic partnerships developed through an important number of retrofit projects, delivers a robust framework for the project success.

Following the initial phase, the project is expected to transition to the installation and retrofit phase. The technical solution that needs to be designed during the feasibility study shall ensure a minimum 10 year reliability period and also shall be engineered to be implemented without impending on the assets operations.

Upon completion of the Feasibility Study, GLO Marine is responsible of putting together all relevant technical documentation, including technical reports and engineering drawings that will lay the groundwork for the Execution Phase. These documents, ranging from updated class drawings, FAT reports, Operation and Maintenance manual to a detailed Risk Register and Installation procedure, will serve as a roadmap for the project’s next stages, ensuring precision and alignment with the overarching goals. The installation and upgrade stage (phase II) must be carried out without interference or disruptions to the daily production activities of the asset.

Retrofits on offshore assets, like the one GLO Marine is undertaking for the FPSO Haewene Brim, are typically more complex and technically demanding than standard system upgrades. They necessitate a unique set of skills, including interdisciplinary collaboration, problem-solving, effective project management, and thorough risk assessment. GLO Marine, with its specialization in retrofit projects, is well-equipped to handle such challenging tasks. The company’s vast experience in hundreds of retrofit projects, along with years of close collaboration with various offshore operators, has given GLO Marine a deep understanding of the sector’s needs and the expertise required to successfully execute such intricate projects. This background ensures that GLO Marine is not just a service provider but a partner equipped to navigate the complexities of offshore retrofitting.

Preparing for New Challenges in Client Satisfaction

Preparing for New Challenges in Client Satisfaction

We’re growing and changing because we listen to what the maritime industry needs. We know its challenges and we’re working to meet them, always putting our clients first. We’re dedicated to being the best, which is why we’re excited to introduce Florin Flor as the newest member of our engineering team. Florin will play a key role in making our projects more efficient and keeping our clients satisfied by serving as our Estimation & Proposal Manager.

Florin will assist clients in understanding the implications of complex projects and how these translate into project execution in terms of budget and time. Together, they will determine the work breakdown structure and establish an accurate budget. Clients will benefit significantly from prompt and accurate responses to their inquiries, swift identification of their exact needs, and the provision of clear and quick pricing in our proposals.

As a naval architect and marine systems engineer, Florin has progressed through virtually every phase of a professional career in shipbuilding. His journey began as a junior shipbuilding coordinator, advancing through roles that involved the design of new vessels, as well as significant retrofits or conversions. His 17 years of expertise extend to the basic engineering of shipboard equipment and the procurement of offshore equipment, as well as to encompassing management activities, including estimating labor requirements or engineering projects.

Florin is passionate about making ships greener. He’s used his skills in smart thinking, solving problems, and planning costs to help projects succeed. He’s worked on updating old ships to meet new environmental standards and changing some ships to do new jobs, helping them last longer.

“My expertise in project management—especially in harmonizing cost, time, and resource requirements for various projects—positions me to deliver substantial value to both our company and our clients. This includes a strategic focus on integrating sustainable practices that align with evolving environmental standards, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and regulatory compliance. And I’m happy to keep moving forward in my career with this dynamic and determined team.” says Florin Flor, Estimation & Proposal Manager of GLO Marine.

We are pleased to welcome Florin to our team. He’s going to make our clients a lot more satisfied. As our Project Estimation & Proposal Manager, he will streamline our process from RFQ to contracting, ensuring swift and efficient service. Our priority is customer-centricity, focusing on building a trusting relationship over time with our clients, because this ultimately leads to projects that are executed exceptionally well. This is particularly valuable in the offshore sector, where reducing vessel downtime is crucial. Florin’s expertise will lead to faster operational readiness and superior service and value.” states Liviu Galățanu, Managing Director of GLO Marine.

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SC GLO-MARINE SRL, titular al proiectului “Unitate de prefabricare electromecanica a sistemelor si echipamentelor electrice integrate, complexe si modulare, utilizate in transportul si operarea navelor maritime si fluviale”, anunta publicul interesat asupra luarii deciziei etapei de incadrare fara evaluarea impactului asupra mediului, de catre APM Galati, in cadrul procedurii de evaluare a impactului asupra mediului, pentru proiectul “Unitate de prefabricare electromecanica a sistemelor si echipamentelor electrice integrate, complexe si modulare, utilizate in transportul si operarea navelor maritime si fluviale”, propus a fi amplasat in jud. Galati, com. Tulucesti, sat Tulucesti, Tarla 88, Parcela 24.

Proiectul deciziei de incadrare si motivele care o fundamenteaza pot fi consultate la urmatoarea adresa de internet: http://www.anpm.ro/web/apm-galati/drafturi-acte-reglementare.

Publicul interesat poate inainta comentarii/observatii la proiectul deciziei de incadrare in termen de 10 zile de la data publicarii anuntului pe pagina de internet a APM Galati, pe email office@apmgl.anpm.ro sau fax 0236471009.

In 2023 GLO Marine solidified its position as a Leading End-to-End Service Provider on the European Retrofit Market

End-to-End Service Provider on the European Retrofit Market

As we still bid farewell to 2023, it’s time to reflect on a year that has been nothing short of challenging for us at GLO Marine. It was a year marked by significant strides in our journey, setting new benchmarks in the maritime industry.

Here’s an in-depth look at our key achievements and how they’ve shaped our year: 

A Leap in Project Delivery 

In 2023, GLO Marine achieved an important performance by doubling the number of projects delivered, recording an 80% increase over 2022. This increase is not just in numbers, but also in the complexity and scale of the projects we have undertaken. From complex upgrades to advanced mobilisation projects, our team has demonstrated its skills and dedication, cementing our reputation as a leader in maritime solutions.

Strategic Expansion: A New Office in Mangalia, Constanța 

2023 saw us expand our geographical footprint with the opening of a new office in Mangalia, Constanța. This strategic move not only brings us closer to key maritime hubs but also enhances our operational capabilities. The new office, our second in Romania, is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experts, ready to take on the challenges of the dynamic maritime sector. 

Team growth and our own site installation team 

Our team grew by an impressive 25% this year, bringing in fresh talent across various departments. In a significant development, we established our own dedicated site installation team, comprising expert pipe fitters and welders. This initiative has enabled us to enhance our service quality and efficiency, particularly in turnkey retrofit installation projects. The team’s expertise was instrumental in successfully delivering 18 turnkey retrofit installation projects this year, each meeting our high standards of precision and excellence. 

Delivering Conversions & Mobilisations for the Offshore Sector

Our foray into the offshore sector was marked by the successful delivery of 16 mobilization projects for 9 offshore operators. These projects varied in scope and complexity, showcasing our ability to adapt and deliver tailored solutions. Our success in the offshore sector underscores our versatility and our commitment to meeting the unique needs of this challenging industry. 

Beyond Numbers: A Focus on Quality and Efficiency of Execution 

While our growth in numbers is significant, what truly sets us apart is our focus on quality and efficiency. Each project we undertook in 2023 was approached with a mindset to innovate and exceed expectations. Our turnkey solutions, known for their efficiency and reliability, have been a game-changer for many of our clients, helping them navigate with ease the complexities of maritime operations. 

A Word from Our Leadership 

Liviu Gălățanu, Managing Director of GLO Marine, reflects on the year: “2023 has been a landmark year for us. Our growth, both in terms of project delivery and team expansion, is a clear indicator of our direction and ambition. As we continue to push the boundaries, our focus remains on delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to the maritime industry. 

Looking Forward to 2024 

As we celebrate our achievements in 2023, we also set our sights on the future. The coming year promises new challenges and opportunities, and at GLO Marine, we are ready to embrace them with the same zeal and commitment that have been our hallmark. Here’s to a future filled with innovation, growth, and continued success in the maritime industry! 

GLO Marine and VMS GROUP DENMARK Forge a Strategic Partnership

VMS GROUP DENMARK

GLO Marine is delighted to announce a groundbreaking strategic partnership with VMS GROUP DENMARK, a move that signifies our unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the maritime industry. This alliance is a natural progression of our longstanding and fruitful relationship, underpinned by a series of successful projects and a mutual dedication to fostering sustainability in maritime operations.

Synergizing Expertise for Sustainable Solutions

Our collaboration with VMS GROUP DENMARK, a leader in propulsion systems, is a testament to our shared expertise and vision. By combining GLO Marine’s specialization in vessel retrofits with VMS Group’s proficiency, we are poised to deliver comprehensive vessel upgrades with a strong emphasis on decarbonization. This partnership is set to redefine the standards in retrofitting, aligning with the latest green technologies to enhance vessel efficiency and minimize environmental impact.

Tailored Approach for the Offshore Energy Sector

Understanding the unique challenges of the offshore energy sector, our partnership is meticulously crafted to meet its specific demands. We recognize the need for rapid, expert solutions to minimize vessel downtime in this dynamic market. Our combined efforts are focused on delivering efficient, operationally aligned solutions that ensure seamless vessel operations in the offshore energy realm.

Expanding Global Reach and Enhancing Client Support

This strategic alliance significantly broadens our global footprint, enhancing the comprehensive support we offer to our clients. With an established presence in regions like Namibia and successful projects across Ivory Coast, Senegal, and South Africa, GLO Marine and VMS GROUP DENMARK are committed to supporting local industries and communities.

Clients will benefit from an extensive range of services, including streamlined procurement for essential installation and modification materials, from pipe prefabricates to electrical components and custom steel structures. Our collaboration ensures not only the sourcing of these materials but also their efficient logistical delivery.

Additionally, our suite of site support services, including installation supervision and skilled manpower provision, is designed to ensure smooth project execution, aligning with each project’s unique requirements.

Statements from Leadership

Liviu Galatanu, Managing Director of GLO MARINE, comments on this partnership: “This collaboration with VMS GROUP DENMARK is a significant milestone for GLO MARINE, aligning perfectly with our goal to excel in the retrofit business. We’re dedicated to meeting our clients’ needs and assisting them in transitioning to a greener, more sustainable maritime future.”

Palle Andersen, Engineering Manager at VMS Group, adds: “Our partnership with GLO Marine has been a natural fit from the start. It strengthens our capabilities in key areas like design and engineering, allowing us to deliver even smoother project execution. We’re excited to share our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions to the maritime industry.”

A Future of Sustainable Maritime Innovation

As the maritime industry navigates towards a sustainable future, GLO Marine and VMS GROUP DENMARK are at the vanguard of this transformation. Our strategic partnership is a pledge to excellence, offering unmatched services and solutions that cater to the evolving needs of maritime regulations and environmental stewardship.

In the sphere of maritime retrofits and modernization, our alliance with VMS GROUP DENMARK sets a new benchmark, embodying our shared commitment to maritime excellence and a sustainable future.

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GLO-MARINE SRL anunta publicul interesat asupra depunerii solicitarii de emitere a acordului de mediu pentru proiectul “Unitate de fabricare electromecanica a sistemelor si echipamentelor electrice integrate, complexe si modulare, utilizate in transportul si operarea navelor maritime si fluviale”, propus a fi amplasat in jud. Galati, comuna Tulucești, sat Tulucesti, Tarla 88, Parcela 24, nr. cadastral 108538, 108539.

Informatiile privind proiectul propus pot fi consultate pe pagina de internet a autoritatii competente pentru protectia mediului A.P.M Galati, http://www.anpm.ro/web/apm-galati/documente-procedura-eim-si-ea si la sediul SC GLO-MARINE SRL din jud. Galati. com. Vinatori, sat Costi, str. Vînători, nr 24 C.

Observatiile publicului se primesc pe adresa de e-mail office@apmgl.anpm.ro.

Charles Day at the Helm of GLO Marine’s Business Development

GLO Marine's Business Development

In a significant move, GLO Marine has bolstered its executive team by bringing Charles Day on board as the Business Development Director. This pivotal appointment underscores the company’s strategic vision of becoming a leading provider of turnkey retrofit solutions in the maritime sector, particularly amidst the global push for decarbonization.

Charles Day comes with remarkable experience in the maritime industry, having honed his skills at prestigious companies such as Swire Seabed, Fugro, Axis Offshore, Subsea 7, and Prosafe. His expertise is not limited to business development; it extends into operations and strategic planning. His proven track record in leading safety-focused operations, forging strategic partnerships, overseeing global tender processes, and taking on diverse leadership roles makes him a significant asset to GLO Marine’s ambitious growth plans.

Liviu Galatanu, GLO Marine’s Managing Director, shared his enthusiasm for Charles’s joining the team:

“It’s a great pleasure to welcome Charles to our GLO Marine family. His unparalleled leadership skills, combined with a deep-seated knowledge of the maritime industry and extensive connections, position him perfectly to propel us towards our aspiration of being the primary partner for vessel owners and managers in their decarbonization efforts,” Liviu remarked.

For his part, Charles Day is equally excited about his new venture:

“Joining GLO Marine, a company renowned for its bold ambitions and steadfast dedication to superior client services, is a privilege. I’m keenly looking forward to leading the advancement in the management of client dry dockings and aiding our clients in meeting the evolving energy efficiency standards. We have a solid foundation to build upon, and I am eager to explore new avenues and navigate GLO Marine towards a future filled with prosperity and innovation,” said Charles.

This strategic hire reflects GLO Marine’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its dedication to surpassing client expectations in a maritime environment that increasingly values environmental sustainability. With Charles Day guiding business development, GLO Marine is well-equipped to instigate transformative changes and innovation in the industry.

GLO Marine distinguishes itself as a dynamic, forward-thinking company, specialising in retrofit solutions for the maritime sector. Rapidly ascending in the industry, the company is devoted to providing holistic turnkey solutions to vessel owners and managers dealing with the complexities of decarbonization and environmental compliance. GLO Marine prides itself on its comprehensive range of services, including detailed project planning, innovative design, procurement, prefabrication, and installation, ensuring an effective and streamlined approach to retrofitting and vessel conversions.

Professionals under review: From Junior Engineer to Team Leader at GLO Marine

Team Leader at GLO Marine

The maritime sector is an ever-evolving tapestry of innovation and leadership, where companies like GLO Marine lead the charge, celebrated not only for their exceptional services but also for the career trajectories they enable. Within this context, the story of Gabriel Alin Cardaș shines as a beacon of professional development. From his early days as a junior engineer to his current role as Team Leader, Gabriel’s ascent is a testament to the nurturing culture at GLO Marine that supports and propels its engineers towards new horizons.

Gabriel’s career arc serves as a blueprint for ambition and growth, moving seamlessly from a junior engineer to a Team Leader. His tale is punctuated by milestones of personal achievement and professional contributions that have not only propelled GLO Marine to new heights but have also cemented the global reputation of its engineering prowess.

A Voyage from Junior Engineer to Team Leader

Gabriel’s journey with GLO Marine commenced at the age of 22. A pivotal contest, “ShipDX“, co-hosted with the Faculty of Naval Engineering in Galați, marked the start of his remarkable path in naval engineering. Winning this contest opened the doors of GLO Marine to him as a junior engineer, even while he was a student. It set the stage for an incredible career that has intertwined with GLO Marine’s own growth and evolution.

As a junior engineer, Gabriel’s initial focus was on the broader technical aspects of engineering. However, his innate drive for knowledge and growth saw him gravitate towards Piping & Systems Design. This role was not just about applying learned concepts but also about venturing into new territories of HVAC systems and beyond, paving the way for his next leap in professional growth.

The support within GLO Marine to learn and master various disciplines of naval architecture saw Gabriel get involved in the design of specialised ships, leading projects from concept design through to 3D modelling and construction plans. His knack for taking on bigger challenges led him to manage complex retrofit projects, including ballast water treatment system installations, and swiftly moving through the ranks from Detail Design to Basic Design.

But Gabriel’s journey didn’t plateau there. Embracing project management, he demonstrated an aptitude for managing resources efficiently, ensuring projects were completed on time and within budget, often exceeding cost optimisation expectations.

Transitioning to the role of Team Leader was a natural progression for Gabriel, a role that he now fills with a rich background of hands-on experience. His current responsibilities entail steering his team towards excellence, ensuring each member is aligned with GLO Marine’s high standards, and their projects reflect innovation and efficiency. This role also involves close collaboration with other departments and clients, delivering solutions that are at once cutting-edge and practical.

Reflecting on Impact and Offering Advice

Gabriel’s rise is a mirror to the potential impact that dedicated engineers can make in the maritime industry. His story is a clear message to aspiring engineers that with dedication and hard work, it’s possible to influence the industry significantly, regardless of where one begins.

His advice to those entering the field is to embrace curiosity, be open to learning, and accept challenges as opportunities for growth. He stresses the importance of collaboration and effective communication, as teamwork is the cornerstone of success in naval engineering.

Experiencing GLO Marine

For Gabriel, GLO Marine is more than a job; it’s a professional odyssey that has allowed him to grow, contribute to pioneering projects, and engage with diverse cultures through travel. He takes pride in being part of a team that is pushing the boundaries of the maritime industry and contributing to its global stature.

He extends an invitation to those who share a passion for the maritime field to consider joining the GLO Marine family. The company’s commitment to nurturing talent is evident in its open-door policy for aspiring professionals, with opportunities detailed in the Careers section of their website.

Gabriel’s story at GLO Marine is an inspiring narrative of professional ascent, reflecting the company’s ethos of empowering its team members to achieve and contribute to the maritime industry’s evolving narrative.

Navigating VGP Compliance with GLO Marine

Navigating VGP Compliance with GLO Marine

In the maritime industry, Vessel General Permit – VGP compliance is a critical regulatory requirement, especially in the United States, a pivotal hub for maritime activity. VGP ensures that Ballast Water Treatment Systems (BWTS) meet established standards. Explore this article as we delve into VGP compliance and its significance for the maritime sector with GLO Marine. 

Understanding VGP Compliance Testing 

The maritime landscape in the United States demands adherence to US Coast Guard (USCG)-endorsed BWT systems and robust VGP oversight. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shapes this rigorous regulatory framework, leaving no room for errors. Non-compliance can result in substantial fines and operational disruptions. In this intricate maritime environment, GLO Marine serves as your trusted partner, offering expert guidance through the complexities of VGP compliance. 

The Evolution of VGP and the Emergence of VIDA 

The roots of VGP compliance date back to a 2005 federal court decision that challenged a three-decade-old exemption related to certain discharges under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) of the Clean Water Act. The outcome was the introduction of VGP in 2008, which saw significant revisions in 2013. Initially, it focused on commercial vessels exceeding 79 feet, establishing limits, best practices, inspection requirements, and registration protocols. 

In 2018, the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA) was introduced to harmonize and simplify regulations for both U.S.-flag and foreign-flag vessels. Although uniform standards are still in development, the EPA is expected to submit new discharge limits by the fall of 2024. 

Ensuring VGP compliance with the support of GLO Marine 

Navigating the complex matrix of VGP compliance can be overwhelming, especially with stringent EPA oversight and pending VIDA rules. In this challenging landscape, a comprehensive and actionable compliance strategy becomes crucial. 

GLO Marine serves as your guiding light in these waters. Our services encompass rigorous VGP compliance assessments, meticulous sampling by experienced professionals, and thorough testing in state-of-the-art laboratories. With a vast network of global partners, GLO Marine offers seamless VGP compliance sampling services worldwide.

Contact our dedicated team today to plan your BWTS VGP Water Sampling. GLO Marine is here to ensure that your vessel remains in compliance with evolving maritime regulations, providing you with the confidence and expertise needed to navigate these intricate waters.