Hull Shield HD4 Ultrasonic Antifouling System – 4 Transducer Unit

Description

Enjoy 24/7 antifouling protection with a Hull Shield HD4 antifouling system. Ultrasonic antifouling uses the power of ultrasound to keep your hull and running gear clean and free of marine fouling. Our systems offer a fully automatic solution that works around-the-clock to keep your boat clean so that you don’t have to.

Hull Shield technology has proven itself over and over again with years of reliable service to boaters the world over. Our products are the preferred choice for boaters wanting the absolute best antifouling solution available.

Maintaining a clean hull can dramatically increases performance, speed, and fuel efficiency. Keeping your hull clean with ultrasound also extends the life of your bottom paint. Layers of valuable paint are removed every time the hull is scrubbed or power-washed. Hull Shield can help to end this routine and destructive cycle. You will enjoy less maintenance costs, haul-outs, while extending the life of your bottom paint. With Hull Shield, you can be confident that your boat is operating at peak performance and efficiency.

Hull Shield is an investment into your future – start saving money, time, and reduce your hassle today.

Specifications Table

HD Series

As part of the new HD series, The HD4 offers an increased efficiency profile that is capable of delivering nearly double the power directly to the transducers when compared to prior versions. Additionally, all HD series products feature our latest hardware technology that boosts overall effectiveness while providing more than twice as many ultrasound frequency bursts in key targeted ranges.

The HD4 is a four-transducer system engineered as a stand-alone system that can add antifouling protection to hulls, drives, rudders, stabilizers, and more. This single system can provide ultrasonic antifouling protection for hulls up to 50ft in length or can be combined with additional systems for larger vessels. The HD4 can also be tasked with protecting drives and can provide coverage for two drives and two rudders simultaneously.

Drives, Rudders, & More

Not just for hulls – Hull Shield can protect your drives and running gear too! Drives are isolated from the hull by motor mounts, gaskets, seals and other insulative materials that block ultrasound from passing to shafts, props, and rudders. Because of this, the drive system requires dedicated transducers to gain the most benefit from ultrasonic anti-fouling. Inboards, pods, sterndrives, and sail-drives can all be fitted with a transducer to enable full anti-fouling protection. Rudders are isolated from the hull in the same way as the drives and also require a dedicated transducer.

Hull Shield Antifouling Technology

Ultrasonic antifouling works by using sound waves to physically repel fouling organisms away from the surface before they can permanently attach. As a bonus, the higher frequency band of ultrasound also disrupts the reproductive cycles of certain types of bio-fouling.

Hull Shield systems operate similar to a stereo and speakers. The controller sends ultrasound signals to transducers attached to the hull or running gear, the transducers receive the high-frequency signals, transforming them into ultrasonic pulses.

Each pulse creates a microscopic shockwave that runs across the hull and drive gear. These ultrasonic waves work to ablate, loosen, and repel fouling which is contacting the hull and drive surfaces. When used in conjunction with an ablative bottom paint, Hull Shield systems are the most effective and long-term antifouling solution available.

Controller

The Hull Shield HD4 controller is the brain behind the brawn. HD4 controllers generate signals for up to 4 transducers and consume about 1Ah of current at maximum potential (when the battery system voltage is at or above 12.7V). The controller is mounted in an accessible location near the 12V battery system supply. The transducer signal cables are routed back to the controller. The HD4 enclosure is IP68 and NEMA rated for waterproof installation, and all connections are IP67 rated or above.

HD series controllers operate on 12VDC battery systems. Please contact us for alternate options on 24VDC systems.

4 Ultrasonic Emitters

This system is equipped with four transducer emitters used to generate the ultrasonic signals which disrupt marine fouling.

Solar / Wind / Low-Power Mode

The HD4 controller is designed for optimum efficiency and ultrasound power delivery. The system is engineered to provide stable operation, even when powered from solar and wind supported power systems with fluctuating battery cycles. The controller will actively adjust the output power to match the current charge-state of the battery system – conserving power when necessary to preserve battery power and extend the length of time the system can operate.

The controller actively monitors system voltage levels which allows it to automatically enter  power conservation mode (PCM) when the system batteries are not being maintained. PCM is a completely automated process which reduces the average system power consumption to as low as 5 watts depending on available battery power.

SLEEP MODE

This system features an automated sleep mode where it will automatically shut down to conserve system battery capacity for important tasks such as cranking motors and operating bilge pumps. The SLEEP MODE is activated when the HD4 detects that the battery voltage has dropped to 50% capacity (approximately 12.1V). When SLEEP MODE is activated, the Hull Shield halts all ultrasonic output and powers down; power consumption drops to near zero. The HD4 will automatically awaken when battery levels have returned to operational levels.

Coverage

HULLS – each transducer provides approximately 200sqft of protected underwater surface area. A rough estimate of your underwater surface area can be calculated by doubling your draft, adding it to your beam, then multiplying by your LWL (length at water line).

DRIVES & RUNNING GEAR –  one transducer can provide dedicated protection for any single isolated part. Examples of isolated parts are drive shaft & props, rudders, exterior engine brackets, struts, swim platforms, and trim tabs. Because these parts are isolated from the hull and each other, a transducer is required for each isolated part.

The HD4 Package Includes:

• 1x Hull Shield HD4 Control Module with Integrated Power Cable
• 4x Submersible Ultrasonic Transducers with 15ft of Cable
• 2x Additional 15ft Extension Cables
• 1x Epoxy Kit
• 1x Printed Installation and Operation Manual

Easy Installation

Hull Shield systems are simple in function and installation. Systems can be installed in a single day and require no technical skills. Besides the simple tools most customers have, everything required for an installation is included in with our products.

The Hull Shield controllers are best mounted in an accessible compartment. The transducers are simply attached directly to the surface of the hull or drive with the supplied 2-part epoxy.

Hull Shield transducers are waterproof and submersible. Transducers can be attached to the inside surface of the bilge, or externally on the transom.

Lifetime Warranty

All Hull Shield Ultrasonic products are fully covered under a Lifetime Warranty for the original purchaser. The warranty protects against defects in materials, workmanship, and parts issues.

Why Choose the Hull Shield HD4 Ultrasonic Antifouling System?

• Comprehensive Coverage: Four transducers provide coverage for hulls up to 50ft or multiple isolated components such as drives and rudders.
• Advanced Ultrasonic Technology: Higher power and more frequency bursts target marine fouling more effectively.
• Energy Efficient: Automatically adjusts output based on battery charge, compatible with solar and wind power sources.
• Durable and Waterproof: High-grade IP68 enclosure and IP67+ rated connectors ensure long-lasting marine performance.
• Easy Installation: Everything needed for installation is included and can typically be completed in a day.
• Eco-Friendly: Non-toxic, safe for marine environments, reduces maintenance costs and extends bottom paint lifespan.
• Scalable Protection: Combine with other Hull Shield systems for larger or more complex vessels.

Detailed FAQs: Hull Shield HD4 Ultrasonic Antifouling System

1. What is the Hull Shield HD4 Ultrasonic Antifouling System and how does it protect vessels?
   It uses four ultrasonic transducers emitting sound waves that disrupt the ability of marine organisms like barnacles and algae to attach and reproduce on the hull and running gear, providing continuous antifouling protection.​

2. What vessel parts are protected by the Hull Shield HD4 system?
   The system protects hulls up to 50 ft in length and isolated components including drives, rudders, exterior brackets, and stabilizers by applying ultrasonic pulses through dedicated transducers.​

3. How does the HD4 system conserve power on solar or wind-powered boats?
   It actively monitors battery voltage and enters power conservation mode or sleep mode during low voltage, minimizing current draw and preserving battery life while ensuring essential boat functions continue.​

4. What are the installation requirements for the Hull Shield HD4 system?
   The controller mounts near a 12V battery; transducers attach to the hull or isolated components using epoxy. Waterproof cables are included and all parts are rated for marine conditions, making installation straightforward.​

5. Can the Hull Shield HD4 system be expanded for larger vessels?
   Yes, multiple HD4 units or combinations with other Hull Shield units allow extended coverage and greater antifouling intensity for bigger boats.​

6. How does the Hull Shield HD4 improve vessel performance?
   By preventing marine growth, the system maintains hull smoothness, improving speed, fuel efficiency, and reducing maintenance and haul-out frequency.​

7. Is the Hull Shield HD4 system environmentally safe?
   Yes, it is chemical-free and non-toxic, using ultrasonic technology to prevent fouling without harmful substances.​

8. What warranty is offered with the Hull Shield HD4 Ultrasonic Antifouling System?
   The system includes a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser.​

Explore our full range of ultrasonic antifouling systems to find the perfect fit for your vessel. Visit our Hull Shield Product Collection page for detailed specs, ensure you select the best Hull Shield solution for reliable marine growth prevention.