Sure Systems' answer to anti-fouling

Boat Sure is a small digital device that emits low frequency ultrasonics and is fitted to the interior of the hull below the waterline with no skin fitting.

Sure Systems said the way the Boat Sure unit works is the hull of the boat and anything attached to it that is within range (a sphere around the unit) becomes an amplifier of the ultrasonic frequency. Boat Sure emits a low frequency signal specific to algae. This signal ruptures the cell vacuole of the algae, thus killing it. The signal will also break down bio-film, which leads to the prevention of barnacles and mollusks.

The unit is suitable for most types of hull construction, Sure System said. The unit's coverage is between 33 feet and 38 feet depending on the resonance of the hull (eg steel resonates higher than dense materials such as jarrah). Catamarans require the Boat Sure Dual unit which has two transducers, one for each hull.

Sure Systems said a boat does not need to be slipped to install Boat Sure. Installation must be done by an approved installer. These approved installers have ultrasonic readers which can determine best signal continuity from day one. The unit uses 12v, 24v or 240v power supply, and up to 2amps or 0.4kw per day. This is the equivalent of running, say, a 24w fluorescent globe. Additional power backup, such as a 40w solar panel, should be considered for boats without access to shore power.

It's always better to start with a clean surface, said Sure Systems, but if a boat is already fouled after installation of the Boat Sure results will be seen within two to three weeks. First the algae will turn brown and die and any other growth will fall away once the food source is gone. Then the bio-film will start to disintegrate, resembling sheets of rice paper. To complete the cleaning process take the boat out for a run and let the water do the cleaning.

Sure System said the unit is eco friendly as it does not kill or harm any marine life. Barnacles, mussels and the like simply search for another food source and party on another boat that is not protected by Boat Sure. There is no impact to aquatic life such as fish and the ultrasonic emits at low frequencies so it won't scare your catch away.

Boat Sure costs $3990, including GST but not installation, for boats up to 33 feet. Boat Sure Dual costs $5750, including GST but not installation, for boats up to 66 feet.

Sure Systems' Water Sure unit uses the same technology and is designed specifically for Marinas.

Further information and testimonials at www.surewatersystems.com.au