R.W. Fernstrum System / Package Enhanced
WEKA Guard & WEKA Protector Type T – Boxcooler Protection System
Protection units exclusive to WEKA copper-nickel boxcoolers: the Guard shields the cooler from welding currents during construction; the Protector Type T guards against ICCP and stray currents in service and keeps the natural anti-fouling layer active — no ICAF needed.
Description
WEKA copper-nickel boxcoolers are installed uncoated and electrically isolated from the hull. Two devices, developed and supplied by WEKA Marine and offered in the Americas by R.W. Fernstrum, protect them over their whole life.
WEKA Guard — during construction
Connected between the boxcooler and the hull during newbuilding or yard work, before ship's power is available. It protects the cooler from welding currents, which can otherwise cause severe corrosion. Also used during later maintenance involving welding.
WEKA Protector Type T — in service
A small unit installed near the boxcooler that protects it from ICCP systems and stray currents from sacrificial anodes, and stimulates the natural anti-fouling capability of the copper-nickel tubes against marine growth.
- Single Protector — one boxcooler
- Dual Protector — two boxcoolers sharing a sea chest
- Multi Protector — three to six boxcoolers in the same sea chest
- Recommended replacement: every 5 years
Benefits
- Natural anti-fouling — no additional ICAF system required
- Environmentally friendly, low operating cost, easy maintenance
- Proven on hundreds of vessels in fresh and saltwater service worldwide
Specifications
| Components | WEKA Guard (construction), WEKA Protector Type T (operation) |
|---|---|
| Protector variants | Single (1 cooler), Dual (2 per sea chest), Multi (3–6 per sea chest) |
| Protects against | Welding currents, ICCP and stray currents, galvanic corrosion, marine growth |
| Replacement interval | Protector: every 5 years |
| For | WEKA 90/10 Cu-Ni boxcoolers |
| Developer | WEKA Marine B.V. |
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