EMCS Industries: A Legacy of Innovation in Antifouling and Biofouling Solutions
EMCS Industries Ltd. has been a pioneer in antifouling and marine growth protection systems since its inception in 1955. The company’s legacy began with two Canadian innovators, Lauder Ramsay and Frank Lewis Chappell, who developed a revolutionary solution to combat marine growth and corrosion on vessels—a persistent challenge for the shipping industry. Their invention laid the foundation for what would become the global standard in Marine Growth Protection Systems (MGPS).
After years of rigorous experimentation starting in 1950, the duo introduced their groundbreaking system, trademarked as the “Cathelco System.” This innovation was first installed on the S.S. Princess Kathleen of Canadian Pacific Coast Services under a “no cure, no pay” agreement. Within nine months, the system delivered outstanding results, prompting its adoption on three additional vessels by 1952.
In 1955, Ramsay and Chappell officially founded Electrolytic Marine Corrosion Services (now EMCS Industries Ltd.) in Victoria, BC, Canada. Their goal was to take their innovation global. To achieve this, they partnered with notable figures like Commander Patrick Heathfield, William Salisbury, and Harry Gale, leading to the creation of Cathodic & Electrolytic Engineers Ltd. in the UK. This collaboration allowed the Cathelco System to be marketed internationally, and by 1961, the system’s patent solidified its status as a Canadian-engineered solution to the global issues of marine biofouling and corrosion.
In 1983, the company streamlined its name to EMCS Industries Ltd., and by 1989, its partnership with the UK ended, leading to two separate entities: EMCS Industries in North America and Cathelco UK. To differentiate itself, EMCS rebranded its flagship system as MARELCO™, marking a significant milestone in its journey as a leader in marine growth prevention systems.
Innovation and Expansion in Marine Growth Protection Systems
In 2015, under new ownership, EMCS relocated to Sidney, BC, and underwent a comprehensive rebranding. The acquisition of Hull Tender International Inc. in 2016 expanded EMCS’s reach into the commercial and recreational vessel markets. Hull Tender’s frequency-based antifouling system was seamlessly integrated into the MARELCO™ portfolio under the name MARELCO Wave, further strengthening EMCS’s innovative offerings.
In 2022, EMCS reestablished its relationship with Cathelco UK, creating a focused North American provider for antifouling and marine corrosion prevention systems. This renewed collaboration underscores EMCS’s commitment to delivering expertise in biofouling management and marine growth protection.
Sustainable Marine Growth and Corrosion Prevention Solutions
Today, EMCS continues to lead the marine industry with cutting-edge solutions such as MARELCO™ anodes, Suricle™, and ShipCarePro™. These products are designed to address the challenges of marine biofouling and corrosion prevention effectively. As part of its commitment to sustainability, EMCS invests heavily in research and development to create innovative, eco-friendly solutions that meet the evolving needs of the marine industry.
From antifouling systems to marine growth protection, EMCS Industries Ltd. remains a trusted partner for sustainable and reliable solutions, ensuring vessel integrity and performance across commercial and recreational markets.
