Having missed METSTRADE, these past two years due to the pandemic, it was wonderful to once again catch up with many of our colleagues and collaborators in person.

The METSTRADE Show is the world’s largest trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems. Returning to the show, we noticed a few topics dominate our conversations.

The maritime industry is undoubtedly looking ahead and trying to break away from a few bad habits; the reliance on fossil fuels and what a de-carbonised industry looks like, being the most pertinent. There is a general atmosphere of optimism the industry can do better. Like any change that requires deeply entrenched ways to be uprooted, however, any initial optimism often gives way to inertia. We are hopeful and determined to ensure these conversations productive.

Things we found particularly encouraging at METSTRADE is the explosion of new interface and system integrations. Whilst there is a dizzying potential of cross-connectivity in our complex web of marine platforms, they should ultimately support a simple objective: ensuring a ship is safe and dependable. We can have the auxiliary engine speak to the charge controllers, the main engine to the auxiliary engines, the electric motors to the batteries, the lights speak to the sound system, to have the motions sensors instruct the aircon units. Some of technology is maturing, however, the state of the art is yet to find its boundaries and the safety precautions aren’t always transparent. For instance: are lithium-phosphate batteries safer in an enclosed metal container or bound with a context-relevant battery management system?

With the development of platforms and processes that mirrors the opportunities and challenges that we contemplate, Navalmartin is working hard to outline the system and process associated with safe dependable vessels, from sailboats, electric launches and work-class vessels.