An Oil Mist is a small oil droplet in the air. Oil mist can be potentially very dangerous because of its low ignition temperature which can cause fire and even explosion in the engine room.
Occasional mechanical failures in the crankcase of marine diesel engines are inevitable. For example, a minor problem with a bearing shell, may cause a 'hotspot' inside the crankcase and thus generate large volumes of oil mist. Also, other types of oil leakage can occur in pressurized oil lines. For example oil can evaporate rapidly if it hits a hot surface.
If these anomalies are not detected on time, major damage may be caused to the crankshaft, resulting in a crankcase explosion.
Such mishappenings may result in time-charter delays, revenue loss and, salvage claims. Unfortunately in extreme cases accidents that can cause serious injuries and fatalities can happen.
Oil Mist Detectors to the Rescue
Fortunately, a device called Oil Mist Detector helps us to prevent such occurrences by detecting and monitoring oil mist levels inside the engine. Such devices measure the oil mist concentration by inserting an oil mist detector into the engine crankcase. The sensor converts the oil mist concentration into an electronic that can be sent to the appropriate computer monitoring device. If the mist concentration exceeds a certain value, an alarm will be issued and cautionary measures will be taken.
Operation Principles
Oil mist detection on ship engines requires a means of obtaining measurements of mist samples. Traditionally, this has been achieved by a system of pipes fitted to the side of the engine. More recently other systems with fewer or no pipes have gained popularity.
The newer and more technologically advanced systems use sensors and oil mist detectors that can be installed inside the crankcase of a diesel engine for better detection performance.
As a result, serious engine failure can be detected early and prevent major damage in diesel engines. Furthermore serious accidents can be prevented in the ship's engine room, pump rooms and other compartments that possess oil systems under pressure.
Equipment & Brands
Many well-known companies offer systems for oil mist detection. Some of them are Daihatsu OMD, Kidde - Graviner, Schaller, Visatron and others.
Oceantech Shipping & Trading Ltd has extensive experience in installing and maintaining various oil mist detector systems on the ships engine room. Should you need any further information regarding these products, do not hesitate to contact us:
Email: oceantech@ost.gr
Tel: +30 2130337678
