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.

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. 

In the dynamic and fast-paced maritime sector, achieving retrofit projects completion often resembles solving a complex puzzle. Coordinating diverse stakeholders, each managing different project phases, can swiftly escalate into a logistical challenge. This is precisely where GLO Marine shines, offering turnkey solutions that simplify, enhance efficiency, and streamline the process. Let’s explore why opting for GLO Marine’s turnkey approach is the smart choice—transforming concepts into concrete achievements, minus the complications.

A Streamlined Process means less stress for your Retrofit Projects

Picture a project journey without the hassle of managing multiple contractors and suppliers. Our turnkey solution promises you a straightforward process, where we handle the task of coordinating and executing every aspect of your project. From thorough feasibility studies to onboard installations, our approach ensures a well-organized and hassle-free experience

Time and Cost Efficiency: Your Strategic Advantage

In an industry where time is crucial, opting for a turnkey solution can make a substantial difference in your retrofit projects. With GLO Marine, you’re not only saving precious time but also optimizing your resources. Our closely-knit teams collaborate efficiently, enabling swift and effective decision-making to keep your project on schedule while maintaining top-notch quality.

Good Communication: The Backbone of Successful Retrofit Projects

Effective communication is the cornerstone of every successful project. At GLO Marine, our dedicated project managers take on the role of your main point of contact, guaranteeing that you remain well-informed throughout the process. With timely updates and seamless coordination, we establish a transparent, responsive communication channel, all aimed at providing you with peace of mind.

Tailored Expertise at every phase

At GLO Marine, engineering isn’t merely a component of our work; it’s the very foundation upon which we build efficiency and success in our projects. With our extensive involvement in countless retrofit and newbuild projects, we’ve gained the experience and knowledge required to expertly tackle any challenges that may arise during a project.

Accountability: Our Promise to You

In a turnkey solution, accountability isn’t fragmented among various parties; it squarely resides with us. We willingly shoulder this responsibility, committing ourselves wholeheartedly to the successful and satisfying culmination of your project. Our approach places a premium on transparency and seamless coordination, all geared toward efficiently realizing your project with the utmost efficiency

We treat your vessels as if they were our own

At GLO Marine, we transcend the role of a conventional service provider; we are your dependable partner in forging a sustainable future. Our turnkey solutions are meticulously designed to unlock substantial benefits, transforming your ideas into tangible accomplishments with our expertise, efficiency, and excellence.

So, if you have a retrofit or conversion project on the horizon, simply share your requirements, and we’ll take care of the rest!

As we cross the midpoint of 2023, we at GLO Marine are delighted to reflect on the strides we’ve made this year. A standout achievement that we’re particularly proud of is the successful completion of 11 end-to-end BWTS retrofit projects.

This accomplishment is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive solutions for all our stakeholders and ship owners. By overseeing every phase of a project – from the initial feasibility study to the final delivery, including project management, procurement, prefabrication, and on-board installation – we ensure a seamless and professional approach that adds value to any retrofit & conversion projects.

A noteworthy fact is that these were 11 complete installation projects where GLO Marine was entrusted with every aspect, from start to finish, by ensuring a turnkey solution that covers all the key stages in the project lifecycle. This involved feasibility & concept, design & engineering, procurement & logistics, as well as installation & site support. 

11 end-to-end BWTS retrofit projects successfully delivered at GLO Marine

The end-to-end BWTS retrofit projects’ scope and our global reach are highlighted by the following remarkable facts:

• Global Reach: Four BWTS retrofit projects were in Europe, two were in Africa, two were in the Middle East, and one was in Singapore.
• Vessel Voyage Installations: We successfully installed systems during vessel voyages on two occasions.
• Supplies Management: We coordinated with more than 50 suppliers and stakeholders across the globe, demonstrating our ability to manage complex supply chains.
• Fleet Program Management: We successfully delivered a seamless Program Management for a fleet of 4 vessels.
• Variety of Vessels: Our work spanned across various types of vessels, including 3 Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), 4 tankers, and 4 offshore supply vessels.
• Safety Record: We maintained a clean Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) track record with zero lost time due to injury.
• On time: None of the projects reported any delays.
• Compliance: We achieved 100% compliance with shipyard and client procedures.
• Site Days: A total of 300 site days and site daily reports were accepted by our clients, underscoring our commitment to transparency and regular communication.

Clients’ opinion about GLO Marine’s end-to-end BWTS projects

Our clients recognize and appreciate our efforts. Marian Lazăr from VMS Group A/S, who recently collaborated with us on a BWTS retrofit project, had this to say:

“Working with GLO Marine on BWTS retrofit projects has been an incredibly positive experience. Their expertise in engineering, superb project management skills, and an unwavering commitment to excellence have added immense value to our partnership. When it comes to retrofits, I have never had the opportunity to work with a more capable team than theirs.”

We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us by our clients and commend each member of our team for their role in our success. As we look forward to the rest of the year and beyond, we remain committed to delivering exceptional client service and exceeding expectations in every project we undertake. Here’s to more milestones, more achievements, and more success stories in the future!

The GLO team did a great job last year, although working remotely, and delivered quality design & engineering on a considerable number of challenging projects.

We asked our colleagues to select their favorite top 3, and here they are:

1.  Platform Supply Vessel – Conversion & BWTS installation

One of our clients, a fleet operator in the Middle East, asked us to perform a Conversion and Ballast Water Treatment System Installation on a Peridot Platform Supply Vessel.

The comprehensive scope of work consisted of mobilization of temporary accommodation units for 40 additional crew, installation of BWTS from AlfaLaval, conversion of dry bulk tank to sewage tank and seafastening of removable towing equipment.

GLO Marine was responsible for complete engineering from basic to workshop documentation and act as owner representative in technical discussions with DNV.

2. Oil Spill Recovery Vessel – Concept Design

The design for this 22-meters Oil Spill Recovery Vessel is focused on functionality, and comes together at the intersection between maximised skimmer capacity and optimised deck space.

Two important design objectives were high speed and maneuverability and plenty of deck space. During an intense 2 weeks discovery and feasibility process, together with our client, our team went through 3 iteration phases and managed to produce a concept that is 100% fit for client’s purpose and budget.

• 50 m3/h – oil skimmer capacity
• 25 knots – service speed
• lightship – estimated at 20 tones
• deck load of 2 tons / m2

3. Expedition Cruise Vessel – Basic Design

The third project we’re presenting in our Top Projects of 2020 Series is the VEGA Expedition Cruise Vessel we worked on alongside Helsinki Shipyard.

Strengthened for sailing in harsh environments (Polar Code Strengthening), at 113 m length and 75 passenger cabins, it is the perfect cruise ship for sailing both in the Arctic and Antarctic waters as well as in the tropical waters during the spring and fall seasons.

GLO Marine was responsible with issuing the Class drawings, integration of basic structural calculations and project management services.

The stress check of existing boat landing report comprises the rules, methodology and assumptions taken into account for the structural assessment of a boat landing platform located on the offshore installations.

The offshore wind sector is seeing an unprecedented grow due to the current drive in green solutions and green energy. Simply put, the system comprises a fixed or floating installation (offshore wind station) and a crew tender vessel that allows engineers and technicians to board these types of installations for service, maintenance and modifications. The difference between the traditional oil and gas sector and the offshore wind sector is that the new installations are not inhabited and are serviced during the day.

This article addresses the dynamic modelling of the safety critical operation of personnel transfer during boarding operations.

While new technologies are improving and innovations are penetrating the market for improved accessibility to board Offshore Wind turbines such as Boarding Control system and motion compensating gangway backed by DP2 and DP3 vessels, the majority of the operations are carried out classically, using a small catamaran CTV. In this case, the vessel will press up against the boat landing, which consists of a pair of strong parallel vertical beams, known as “bumper bars”.

The classical solution is still working due to reduced cost (compared to complex vessels and complex transfer systems), and dramatically enhanced number of installed wind stations that require service. This allows the service personnel to step across to a ladder located between and slightly behind the boat landing.

This shows a continuous need for engineering support in order to assess the integrity of the boat landing platform and to ensure the safe operation in high seas environments all over the world.

GLO Marine has performed several of these types of analyses on jacket structures, semisubmersibles (HVDC units especially) and offshore wind stations. The work has been performed mainly for vessels ranging from 50 to 250 tons, in waves up to 2 m significant wave height and 1 to 2 m/s impact velocity.

The proper assessment of the operation (vessel displacement, impact area, velocity and impact points) are most important when deriving the berthing force for a correct simulation and diagnose.

The energy absorption of the structure is dictated by the ship mass, it’s trajectory during impact and the impact area. For conservative reasons, the mass modelled ship does not absorb energy, while the contact area is kept to minimum during impact.

Extreme wind loads and wave loads are also equally important to be properly assessed based on metocean data available in the location of the installation.

Up to 70 load combinations are usually derived during the analysis to inspect the structure in all conditions ensuring the safety of crew and asset.

Our team of Naval Architects and Structural Engineers are using the latest software (FEMAP from Siemens) and latest rules and methodology available in order to help our clients complete their projects and objectives in a safe and controlled manner.

Precision in ship design is key to making alternative propulsion systems viable for owners.

GLO Marine has recently completed a project to optimise the hull design of a 15-metre catamaran workboat with the ultimate goal of reducing the wave making resistance to a minimum, whilst keeping the vessel’s main dimensions unchanged. The work was performed using CFD methods and Numeca Fine /Marine software tools. Read the complete article to discover our way of work and all the benefits of CFD analysis on small boats design.

Although still in its infancy, electric propulsion is here to stay. As with any new industry, the ‘introduction’ stage involves technological uncertainty and high capital needs, followed by the ‘growth’ and ‘maturity’ stages, where proven designs and lower costs bring the product into the mainstream.

Electric propulsion is still in the ‘introduction’ stage, where maximising benefits is driven by operability, and how and where these systems are installed, rather than by the actual product design process, currently limited by technology. This shows a real need for precision engineering to support emerging technologies.

With electric propulsion, it is of paramount importance to make sure that the limited power installed on board is directed towards meeting the vessel’s operability targets, rather than driving a weak hull design. And this is where an optimised ship design makes all the difference in the world.

Until recently, CFD-based hull optimisation was used mostly for larger vessels, where even a 2% reduction in fuel consumption over the vessel’s lifespan can have a big impact on overall operational costs. For smaller vessels, interest was minimal due to the smaller engines and shorter voyages.

However, this is changing with the growing adoption of electric propulsion, where any kind of savings in terms of power means smaller batteries for the same range or longer voyages for the same powerpack. And the center stage is currently being taken by aquaculture support vessels and offshore wind farm CTVs in their search for economies.

CFD therefore has a role to play in a world where absolute accuracy in ship design can deliver major benefits and so support the growth of electric propulsion as owners see its benefits in financial as well as environmental terms.

 

Electric catamaran

As one example, GLO Marine recently completed a project for MEST Shipyard in the Faroe Islands, which involved optimising the hull design of a 15m catamaran workboat, with the ultimate goal of reducing the wave-making resistance to a minimum while keeping the vessel’s main dimensions unchanged. The cat is intended for aquaculture operations, specifically salmon farming, around the Faroe Islands. The owner had requested a vessel with a continuous sailing time of just over 10 hours at a service speed of 8knots, on a single charge. Electric propulsion was the preferred option, resulting in zero fumes on the deck. Fish-farm operations are carried out when the vessel is either stationary or maneuvering at very low speeds. When diesel propulsion is used, this often results in the exhaust being blown over the crew. Another benefit is that electric propulsion results in low engine noise: a benefit for the crew but also for the fish, as this greatly reduces their stress levels.

Using CFD, GLO Marine ensured that the 15m catamaran’s optimised hull shape (right) kept the same draught of the baseline hull (left), while the displacement was altered just a fraction of its original value.

CFD analysis set-up

The work for the catamaran was performed using CFD methods and Numeca FINE/ Marine software tools. Correct set-up of CFD runs is crucial to properly simulating the water flow around the hull and generating reliable results, with the focus being on creating the right mesh distribution to balance accuracy on one hand, and computational time on the other. The mesh was optimised to follow the vessel’s own wave pattern, whilst taking all measures such that the mesh density was constant between the various hull shapes tested. This gave GLO full confidence that any difference in forward resistance was the result of the hull optimisation and not because of a mesh variation.

After careful attention was paid to the hull extremities and trim, the enhanced hull showed obvious improvements in terms of its own wave pattern and a reduction in forward resistance by almost 10% compared to the baseline case was achieved. This allowed for approximately one hour’s extra sailing time at the service speed of 8 knots.

With a process where both computational power and time cost money, GLO’s mesh of 5 million cells achieved an intersection of 12 hours of computational time for each variation on a 32-core machine that delivered accurate depictions of the flow of the water around the hull.

Objectives and results

For the analysis, the computer-generated vessel was trimmed by 2° aft (0.5m trim) to replicate normal operating conditions, and accelerated to 8 knots, corresponding to the vessel’s service speed. The CFD analysis was then conducted across eight variations of the hull shape, with the aim of optimising the areas which had major variations in their hydrodynamic pressure coefficients and thus had the largest impact on generating resistance to waves.

The analysis proved conclusively that continuous waterlines with no inflection points and no hydrodynamic shoulders yielded the greatest benefits for this particular design. Implementing these findings delivered an optimised design that returned a 10% reduction in forward resistance compared to the baseline design.

These performance upgrades were achieved without altering the vessel’s main dimensions, through small changes that made big differences. These included optimising the entry angle of the water plane area and the forward profile. The optimised hull shape kept the same draught as the baseline hull, whilst the displacement was altered just a fraction of its original value; a reduction of 2.3% as a result of the slimmer fore extremity shapes.

The entire CFD process was developed and managed by a mixed team of hydrodynamics engineers and hull designers, to ensure that all hull modifications could be implemented and carried out safely throughout the construction phase. Successful initiatives like this one can have a longer-lasting and broader impact on the industry by instilling trust that electric propulsion can meet operational expectations, allowing this technology to gain more traction and higher adoption rates.

GLO Marine has dealt with more than 100 catamaran workboats to date, solving various engineering challenges, from stability to hull optimisation and onboard arrangements.