That's because Fernstrum, the oldest name in the marine cooling sector,
is also its most experienced.
After intense research, Mr. Fernstrum developed the basic keel cooler design
that is still used today.
Sean's grandfather(Robert Fernstrum), then the Chief engineer at Gray Marine,
was given the task of fixing it.
When that happens, Fernstrum merely takes technical data from the engine company
and engineers a solution to match.
Today, the vast majority of Fernstrum's output is custom-designed for a vessel or a series of vessels.
Today, most of Fernstrum's heat transfer testing occurs in-house,
electronically with software or in test tanks at the Fernstrum facilities.
Fernstrum creates the product line others try to copy,
and they continue to innovate today through product evolution and partnerships with other companies.
For those U.S. yards that also produce tonnage for export,
it isn't unusual to see Fernstrum coolers on those vessels as they take last line for the Amazon,
and beyond.
Selling into every workboat sector up to a maximum engine output
of 10,000kW, there is a keel cooler for any marine hull, and Fernstrum will custom engineer one to match.
Sean Fernstrum wrapped up an educational talk by declaring,“With all the complications
that a vessel in operation may experience, it is reassuring to have equipment that's efficient, effective, durable, and simple.
Sean Fernstrum perhaps explains it best,
saying,“In the past, a new engine type might be expected to be standard for two or three decades, now those changes are coming every five years.