TMS to launch Sertec CMCE Micro at Metstrade 2026

Technical Marine Supplies (TMS) will introduce the Sertec CMCE Micro at Metstrade 2026, marking the global launch of a compact, passive device designed to manage static electrical charge on exposed marine structures.

The device is intended for installations where the size and weight of conventional equipment can be a constraint. TMS, Sertec’s exclusive European distributor, will hold UK stock and provide technical support to boatbuilders, marine engineers, equipment manufacturers and commercial operators.

Conventional lightning protection systems are designed to manage the effects of a strike. The CMCE Micro instead aims to reduce the electrical conditions that can contribute to lightning attachment. Sertec’s capacitive electrode technology is designed to transfer induced electrical charge towards ground, reducing local electric-field concentrations and conditions associated with corona discharge.

Rather than the arrays of fine conductive points used by traditional static dissipaters, the Micro uses insulated capacitive electrodes to manage the local electric field. It needs no external power supply and can be installed on its own or alongside Sertec’s larger CMCE systems, subject to suitable earthing arrangements.

The technology was originally developed to address installation challenges on outriggers in the US sportfishing market. Other potential applications include weather buoys, navigation marks, unmanned surface vessels (USVs), remote monitoring stations, communications equipment and secondary yacht structures.

Hector Ayala, director of business development, says: “CMCE Micro builds on our established capacitive technology, adapting it for smaller and more exposed installations. Our focus has been on developing a device that can manage local electrical conditions where larger equipment is impractical, while maintaining the passive operating principle of our existing CMCE range. This opens up opportunities for a wider range of marine and remote infrastructure applications.”

Nick Cook, commercial lead at Technical Marine Supplies, adds: “For the marine sector and equipment manufacturers, lightning-risk management can be particularly challenging on smaller or remote installations where space, weight and access are restricted.”

Cook continues: “CMCE Micro gives us another option to address those requirements. Its compact design and passive operation make it an interesting proposition and we’re looking forward to introducing it to the European market and discussing potential applications with customers at Metstrade.”

The CMCE Micro will be on display at Metstrade 2026 (01.574).