From oceans to rivers, water is a cornerstone of our environment, making its preservation essential for a sustainable future. Oceans, the largest ecosystems on Earth, play a crucial role in our lives. They produce most of the oxygen we breathe, absorb carbon dioxide and heat from the atmosphere, and regulate our climate. Additionally, oceans harbor millions of (undiscovered) species and provide food and livelihoods for billions of people.
With the rise in offshore activities and construction projects, protecting our marine environment has become increasingly important. One innovative solution that has gained popularity is the bubble curtain. But what exactly are bubble curtains? What types exist? And how does Atlas Copco Rental meet the growing demand for these systems with its electric-driven and efficient diesel-driven certified 100% oil-free air compressors?
A bubble curtain, also known as a pneumatic barrier, is an aquatic system that produces bubbles in a specific arrangement. This technique involves releasing air bubbles beneath the water surface, usually at the bottom, using air compressors to propel them through hoses or nozzle pipes. Bubble curtains drastically reduce the effects of both shock and sound waves, and effectively they also absorb them.
Bubble curtains are more than just a sound barrier, they have many other benefits, let's jump into them.
Bubble curtains are known for their effectiveness in mitigating underwater noise during marine construction projects. But with various types available, how do you choose the right one for the job?
A lot of applications benefit from the innovative use of bubble curtains, including:
Minimizing the impact of constructing sustainable power sources
Offshore wind power is one of the fastest-growing sources of sustainable, renewable energy. However, constructing wind turbines remains a significant challenge, requiring stable foundations to withstand extreme weather and strong currents. Underwater noise mitigation safeguards marine life during the construction of offshore windfarms.
Separating canal water: salt versus fresh
The bubble curtain prevents the mixing of saltwater and freshwater by ensuring that only saltwater from the lower layer flows into the lock when the gate is opened, keeping the freshwater in the upper layer distinct. When the lock on the opposite side is opened, the saltwater flows out, and the chamber is replenished with freshwater. Without a bubble curtain, virtually all the freshwater in the lock chamber would quickly mix with saltwater.
Floating waste collector
The bubble curtain acts as a floating waste barrier, helping to protect our waterways by accumulating and collecting waste in rivers and channels.
Using 100% class zero certified oil-free air is crucial to avoid polluting the marine environment. This prevents the introduction of harmful substances into the sea, safeguarding marine wildlife and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Maintaining the purity of compressed air is a non-negotiable aspect of your bubble curtain project.
There are 5 key considerations for the success of your bubble curtain project, let us have a look.
Our offerings include Class Zero protection, robust technology and a one-stop shop approach. By safeguarding nature and enhancing sustainability, we position ourselves at the forefront of supporting the green energy transition.
With extensive experience in handling complex bubble curtains, Atlas Copco Rental knows the ropes. We do not just provide a machine; we think along with you and make sure you receive a made-to-measure solution to get the job done.
Breakdowns never announce themselves, that is why we are standing by around the clock. We get your operations up and running in no time. Contact us today!
Are you in search of dependable, durable, and certified offshore air compressors? Atlas Copco Rental is your trusted source for Rigsafe and Zone 2 compressors. Our equipment is designed to withstand the harsh conditions of rough seas, having DNV 2.7-1 certified lifting frames and slings, corrosion-resistant paint, and components. Whether you need electric or diesel-driven, oil-free or oil-injected compressors, we have the solution for you. Our range covers low to high pressure and accommodates a wide range of flows.
With Atlas Copco Rental you get more than our offshore rental equipment. We offer many support services, including freight and logistics; installation, commissioning, and decommissioning; fuel management and energy management; on-site operators; training, supervision, and specialist technicians (GWO and BOSIET certified). We also offer 24/7 maintenance and service to ensure optimum performance of your equipment at all times.
Learn how Atlas Copco's 100% class zero certified oil-free air solutions enable bubble curtains that protect marine life during the construction and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
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August 23, 2019
Atlas Copco Rental provides 100% oil-free air to create sustainable solution during construction of offshore wind mills in Taiwan and helps protect marine ecosystem
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Two bubble curtains were installed in the Northern Lock in IJmuiden, the Netherlands, to curb the salinization of the North Sea Canal. To create these bubble curtains, which generate an air flow with 100% oil-free compressed air (ISO 8573-1 CLASS 0),...
June 5, 2018
When operating in open waters, we should not underestimate the role of oil-free, as it is vital when the air is in direct contact with the environment. An example is the use of oil-free air for the creation of underwater bubble curtains for sound mit...
September 29, 2016
Antwerp, Belgium, September 29, 2016 - During installation of wind farms at sea, marine life has to be taken into account: the fragile fauna can experience nuisance during piling. Seaway Heavy Lifting contacted Atlas Copco Rental to deliver 100% oil-...
