PRESS RELEASE AND NEWS

NEWS ARCHIVE

• Martechnic is Granted European Patent for Its Innovative Test Device "MT COOLANT CHECK"

  2025-12-12

  

  Martechnic is delighted to announce that its test device "MT COOLANT CHECK" has recently been granted a patent for utilizing an innovative measurement method to determine the remaining corrosion protection of the engine coolant directly on site. 

  Our invention is registered under the Patent Number EP4332358 at the European Patent Office (EPO).

  The patented technology of the "MT COOLANT CHECK" covers an environmentally friendly, chemical-free and sustainable approach to evaluating water-based engine coolants running just one single test.

  The test device uses an electrotechnical apparatus with constant (corrosion resistant) and working/changeable (corrosion-prone) electrodes that are subjected to corrosion stress in a simulated engine cooling system.  The performance of the engine coolant is characterized in relation to its existing level of corrosion protection on the metals used in the cooling system.

  All the evaluation is carried out fully automatically, delivering results in just 20 minutes. The remaining corrosion protection of the engine coolant in use is determined with a new unit of measurement: Lagner (lag).

  After the measurement, the "MT COOLANT CHECK" offers precise and timely maintenance recommendations. In case the determined anti-corrosive effect of the engine coolant in use is insufficient, the dosing rate of the chemical additive to be added will be automatically calculated. In this way, the test device helps to avoid unnecessary coolant changes and wastage.

  Easily recyclable electrodes with no shelf-life limitations contribute to waste reduction, minimizing environmental risks, especially to marine ecosystems, thereby marking a significant stride towards sustainable predictive maintenance in the maritime industry.

  The siginificant advantage of our technical solution is that it is applicable for analyzing different coolant formulations regardless of the coolant additive composition or manufacturer. 

  The recently issued patent for the test device "MT COOLANT CHECK" adds to Martechnic’s intellectual property portfolio that includes the test device "TOTAL IRON CHECK" and the water-in-oil sensor technology "AHHOI IR".

   

• Martechnic Supports WWF’s Christmas Charity Campaign "DONATIONS INSTEAD OF GIFTS 2025"

  2025-12-02

  

  Martechnic‘s annual contribution to WWF’s fundraising campaign "Donations instead of gifts 2025" is our proactive choice and corporate responsibility strategy to support nature and species conservation efforts of the environmental protection organization instead of giving traditional Christmas gifts.

  We at Martechnic are confindent that promotion of sustainable development goals is a meaningful way to show our company’s commitment to environmental protection projects and community involvement. Every small contribution can make a big difference opting for a healthy planet and a future worth living.

   

• Martechnic Adds New Test Kit “MT UREA CHECK” to Its Product Range

  2025-02-01

  We are excited to reveal the successful launch of our new product - test kit “MT UREA CHECK”.

   

  

   

  The test kit is designed for rapid on-board determination of urea concentration in marine diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) AUS 40 (aqueous urea solution at 40 % concentration). The quality and appropriate concentration of urea in AUS 40 is crucial for optimal performance of diesel engines with SCR (selective catalytic reduction) system. The prolonged storage of AUS 40 and high temperatures can lead to its gradual decomposition and thus have a negative effect on the urea concentration.

  The customized test kit “MT UREA CHECK” enables measuring of urea concentration in AUS 40 by means of UREA REFRACTOMETER and determination of pH value with special INDICATOR PAPER.

  

  Utilizing the test kit, the quality marine diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) AUS 40 can be assessed in accordance with ISO 18611-1:2014, and the following possible error sources can be promptly determined:

  • Technical deviating specifications
  • Thermal instability (shelf life)
  • Dilution (possibly chemical contamination)

• Innovation in Marine Sustainability: A Conversation with Frank Herholdt of Martechnic

  2025-01-01

  Tina Ross, Awards Manager of Ship Technology Excellence Awards, speaks with Frank Herholdt, Head of Management at Martechnic, about their groundbreaking MT COOLANT CHECK technology and their Environmental Category win in the 2024 Ship Technology Excellence Awards.

  TR: Congratulations on winning the Environmental Category! Could you tell us what makes the MT COOLANT CHECK technology so revolutionary?

  FH: Thank you, Tina. What sets MT COOLANT CHECK apart is its completely chemical-free approach to coolant testing. Traditional methods rely heavily on chemical analyses and hazardous products, but our patent-pending device uses electrotechnical apparatus with specialized electrodes to simulate an engine cooling system. The steel and stainless-steel electrodes are very easy in handling and disposal. They do not generate chemical waste and can be disposed as a regular scrap metal on a vessel.

  TR: That's fascinating. How long does the testing process take, and what kind of results can operators expect?

  FH: The innovation of our system is its simplicity and efficiency. Operators can analyze water-based coolants with just one measurement through a single coolant sample, and results are delivered in just 15 minutes. The device performs all evaluations automatically and even calculates precise dosing recommendations when needed. We've also introduced a new unit of measurement called the "Lagner" to assess remaining corrosion protection.

  TR: Environmental impact seems to be at the core of your innovation. How does MT COOLANT CHECK contribute to sustainability beyond its chemical-free testing?

  FH: Absolutely. We've approached sustainability from multiple angles. The electrodes are made from steel and stainless steel, which are far less resource-intensive to produce than traditional test kit materials. These components are also easily recyclable, supporting a circular economy. Plus, by providing precise maintenance recommendations, we help prevent unnecessary coolant changes and reduce waste.

  TR: How has the maritime industry responded to this innovation?

  FH: Some customers even called our approach revolutionary in the coolant predictive maintenance practices. Ship operators appreciate not only the environmental benefits but also the cost-effectiveness and time savings. By replacing multiple individual tests with one comprehensive solution, we're helping crews maintain more efficient maintenance schedules while supporting their environmental commitments.

  TR: Looking ahead, what's next for Martechnic in terms of sustainable innovation?

  FH: As a company celebrating over 25 years in the industry, we remain committed to combining tradition with innovation. We're continuously exploring new ways to support sustainable shipping through our oil quality management solutions. Our focus is on developing technologies that not only improve operational efficiency but also help the maritime industry meet its environmental protection goals.

  TR: What does winning the Environmental Award in the Ship Technology Excellence Awards mean to you personally?

  FH: This recognition validates our commitment to sustainable maritime solutions. It's particularly meaningful because it highlights that environmental responsibility and technical excellence can go hand in hand. We hope this encourages more innovation in sustainable maritime technologies.