CM Technologies (CMT) has issued a warning regarding the rising incidents of machinery failures and engine-room fires in the maritime industry, emphasizing the need for advanced monitoring systems. According to a report by DNV, there has been a 20% increase in machinery damage failures this year alone. Notably, engine-room fires have accounted for over half of all marine equipment-related insurance claims.
CMT argues that these advanced diagnostics and monitoring solutions are not mere enhancements; they are essential safety tools for mitigating risks. Uwe Krüger, Managing Director at CMT, highlighted that machinery failures often catch crews off guard and that effective monitoring can alert them to impending disasters. For instance, he pointed to the recent tragedy involving the cargo vessel Stride, where a small oversight—such as a faulty valve—led to catastrophic consequences.
Krüger noted that modern acoustic sensors could have detected irregular pressure or vibration patterns before the situation escalated, potentially preventing a disaster. CMT’s Co-Managing Director, David Fuhlbrügge, echoed these concerns, stating that machinery failures are responsible for 60% of all marine equipment-related incidents. Older ships are especially susceptible to such failures, which can be detected with performance optimization tools.
He cited an instance with the ocean vessel Ocean Navigator, where effective monitoring could have identified lube oil contamination before it sparked a fire. Fuhlbrügge asserts that real-time monitoring is crucial, as traditional inspection methods may overlook gradual yet significant wear and degradation. While no technology can eradicate all risks, the maritime sector has various diagnostic tools to measure key performance indicators.
By employing these tools alongside diligent maintenance, operators can uncover issues that could lead to machinery failures. In conclusion, Krüger emphasizes the importance of adopting a data-driven approach to counter the rising machinery damage incidents highlighted by DNV. Implementing advanced condition monitoring not only improves efficiency but also protects lives, cargo, and the environment from potentially devastating failures.