Oily Water Separator (OWS)
What is Oily Water Separator (OWS)?
An Oil Mist Detection System (OMDS) is a safety system used in marine engines to detect the presence of oil mist in the crankcase. Oil mist can form due to leaks, overheating, or improper lubrication, and it is highly flammable. If not detected and addressed promptly, it can lead to catastrophic engine failures, including crankcase explosions.
Function and Operation
Continuous Monitoring: The OMDS continuously monitors the concentration of oil mist within the crankcase of the ship’s engine. Oil mist can form due to high temperatures, friction, or oil leaks within the engine.
Sensors: Specialized sensors are installed in the crankcase. These sensors detect the tiny oil particles suspended in the air, which form a mist.
Alarm System: When the concentration of oil mist reaches a certain threshold, the system triggers an alarm to alert the ship’s crew. This allows them to investigate the issue and take corrective measures before the situation escalates.
Automatic Shutdown: In more advanced systems, if the oil mist concentration reaches a dangerously high level, the OMDS can automatically shut down the engine to prevent a potential explosion. This shutdown mechanism is crucial in preventing serious damage to the engine and avoiding catastrophic accidents.
Installation and Commissioning
Before installing an Oil Mist Detection System (OMDS) on a ship, our specialists meticulously plan the placement of sensors within the engine crankcase, ensuring they are accessible, visible, and strategically located near critical areas such as the main bearings and crankshaft. We then establish the necessary electrical connections and integrate the alarm system with the ship’s control system. After installation, we rigorously test each sensor’s accuracy, configure the system’s settings, and validate its performance through comprehensive scenario testing to ensure that the alarm functions correctly and the system can effectively prevent engine failures.
Calibration and Certification
Calibration of the Oil Mist Detection System (OMDS) on a ship involves aligning the system’s sensors with recognized standards to ensure precise readings. We recommend annual calibration to prevent system malfunctions and maintain reliability. Our certification process guarantees that the OMDS meets industry standards and regulatory requirements, safeguarding the engine and crew. Our technicians conduct thorough assessments, review all necessary documentation, perform on-site inspections, and issue the required compliance certificates. We handle calibration and certification for OMDS equipment from leading manufacturers, ensuring your system operates effectively to prevent potential engine failures and accidents.
Repair, Service, and Maintenance
We provide comprehensive repair, service, and maintenance for Oil Mist Detection Systems (OMDS) on ships to ensure their optimal performance and longevity. Regular inspections allow us to identify signs of wear, damage, or malfunctions, while functional tests confirm the system’s proper operation. In the event of unexpected issues, we promptly repair or replace faulty components. Additionally, we keep the OMDS software up-to-date to enhance its functionality. Our specialists are skilled in setting up and maintaining OMDS equipment from trusted manufacturers, ensuring that the system continues to protect the ship’s engine and crew from the dangers associated with oil mist accumulation in the crankcase.
Products
The Focas 2000 features automated operation using sample water pressure, synchronized with an oil separator or pump. It includes automatic washing, error code indicators, and stain detection alerts for easy maintenance. With dual safety alarms and a replaceable sensor, it ensures reliable detection and convenient upkeep.
The 15ppm Bilge Alarm, such as the “BilgMon 488,” is designed for ship oil separators, monitoring and halting discharge if oil content exceeds 15ppm, ensuring compliance with IMO Rules MEPC.107(49). It can also serve as an oil content alarm in other applications with clean water.
The Smart Bilge Alarm by Rivertrace employs advanced “Smart Cell” Detector Array Technology, allowing the OCM to simultaneously analyze three oil types—HFO, Diesel, and Emulsions—without requiring re-calibration.Additionally, the SMART Bilge is competitively priced, and its measuring cell can be conveniently replaced with a newly calibrated one, which can be purchased here.