At the end of January, UK-based Solar Solve Marine secured a contract worth £20,000 for the supply of DIMMLITE® Type Approved flame retardant window shades from its marine blinds product range. The order was destined for Vietnam and awarded by South East Asia Shipyard, based in Ho Chi Minh City, which is constructing a series of four tug vessels as part of the Piriou group.
This contract further strengthens Solar Solve Marine’s presence in the Asian shipbuilding market, particularly in high-growth maritime regions.
Project Overview and Shipyard Requirements
South East Asia Shipyard is currently engaged in building multiple tug vessels designed for offshore and port support operations. For these vessels, effective window shading solutions are essential to ensure safe and comfortable working conditions for crew members.
The selected DIMMLITE® products were specified to meet strict safety and performance standards, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations.
Flame Retardant Window Shade Performance
The ROLASOLV® range of flame retardant window shades is designed for installation at cabin windows and public areas on vessels. These systems provide effective solar protection while also meeting stringent fire safety requirements.
Key compliance and safety features include:
- DNV-GL Type Approval certification
- IMO FTPC Part 7 (A.563(14)) compliance
- BS5438 flame spread certification
- Suitable for vertical textile and film applications
These standards ensure the product meets global marine safety expectations.
Sun and Glare Protection Benefits
In marine environments, exposure to sunlight and glare can significantly affect visibility and crew performance. SOLASOLV® systems are widely used across ships, rigs, and cranes to reduce these challenges.
Performance benefits include:
- Up to 87% heat rejection
- Up to 93% glare reduction
- Reduced eye strain and fatigue
- Improved outward visibility for safer navigation
These advantages make them a critical safety component in modern vessel design.
Industry Experience and Global Reach
Solar Solve Marine has been providing sun and glare protection solutions to the marine and offshore industry for nearly three decades. The company’s products are installed on a wide range of vessels worldwide, including ships, offshore platforms, and heavy lifting equipment.
This long-standing experience supports its reputation as a trusted supplier in global shipbuilding markets.
Market Expansion in Vietnam
According to Solar Solve Marine’s Sales and Marketing Executive, Paul Hopkins, this contract represents a strong opportunity to expand business in Vietnam’s growing shipbuilding sector.
He highlighted that close collaboration with distributors and shipyards allowed the company to meet precise technical requirements, resulting in successful project delivery and improved client satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are marine blinds used for on ships?
They are used to reduce sunlight glare, heat, and improve visibility inside ship cabins and operational areas.
2. Why are flame retardant window shades important?
They ensure fire safety compliance while also providing effective solar protection onboard vessels.
3. Which standards do these marine blinds meet?
They comply with DNV-GL, IMO FTPC Part 7, and BS5438 flame spread certification requirements.
4. Where are these systems installed?
They are installed in cabin windows, public areas, and other interior spaces on ships.
