DNV has launched a monitoring service to help vessels equipped with two-stroke diesel engines operate at peak efficiency continuously.
DNV's new Technical Operations Performance (TOP) monitoring service is the outcome of a research partnership between DNV, Marintek and several Norwegian shipowners. It involves a regime of inspecting key technical parameters and implementing recommendations for optimizing ship operational performance.
DNV says that participating vessels stand to enhance voyage safety; reduce maintenance and off-hire costs; improve their Tanker Management and Self Assessment (TMSA) ratings; lower fuel consumption and emit less air pollutants.
"TOP Monitoring covers a broad spectrum of operating parameters and consolidates all cost saving opportunities for a significant impact on the ship operator's bottom line," says Tore Morten Wetterhus, managing director of DNV Petroleum Services. "We have, for instance, seen examples of fuel consumption cut by up to 5 percent, while the typical reduction in our pilot studies was in the region of 1-2 per cent. Given today's average price of US$400 for 380 cSt fuel oil, this is obviously a very attractive prospect."
A Technical Condition Index (TCI) is derived from the performance data collected, and corrected for ISO conditions. Technical experts at DNV Petroleum Services evaluate the TCI trends and produce customized recommendations for performance improvements and necessary maintenance tasks.
An important feature of TOP Monitoring is the linking of fuel quality and the vessel's operational performance and maintenance needs.
"By establishing such a connection, we can further narrow down on specific fuel quality parameters or onboard components that require close monitoring," says Mr Wetterhus.
Apart from the normal engine monitoring equipment, a torque meter and an MIP calculator are the only additional hardware required for a commercial vessel to enrol in TOP Monitoring.
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