Results of Joint Research on CBM Adopted in ClassNK Guidelines(Edition 2.0)

The results of joint research conducted with the Partners since November 2019 on realizing Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) for main diesel engines has been adopted by ClassNK in the CBM Guidelines (Edition 2.0).

Background

In the shipping industry, Time-Based Maintenance (TBM) is usually practiced, but TBM requires a vessel to halt operations for a few weeks of inspections every two or three years even if no fatigue or breakdown of the engine is observed. Moreover, unexpected failures can occur during voyages and can cause long delays. With recent developments in information and communication technology, large amounts of data can now be transmitted between ship and shore, so since November 2019, Japan Engine Corporation (:J-ENG) started a joint research with NYK, MTI, together with ClassNK on using CBM to optimize maintenance.

Results

The "Guidelines for Selection of Target Equipment and Methods for CBM and Maintenance" developed through joint research have been adopted in the "CBM Guidelines (Edition2.0). " recently published by ClassNK. The guidelines explain how to ensure safety and the cost effectiveness of introducing CBM from three perspectives: "Concerned Machinery and Equipment for Condition Based Maintenance", "Condition Based Maintenance Methods", and "Considerations when Adopting a CBM Survey Scheme". As a result of the joint research, J-ENG also verified a main bearing simulator for condition-monitoring device that can acquire detailed bearing-temperature data to evaluate the bearing damage degree. J-ENG has developed the "main bearing monitoring system" to share the bearing data and navigation data in real time among the shipping company, classification society and engine manufacturer by installing the sensors on the bearings of ships' large diesel engines.
The system will be installed on an NYK-owned coal carrier "Noshiro Maru", and in the future NYK plans to apply for a CBM-operation certification.

Future Outlook

J-ENG will continue its research and development into CBM-management methods with its partners with the aim of developing an autonomous next-generation CBM in the future, one in which AI (artificial intelligence) constantly monitors the status of engine plants and determines the timing of maintenance by making use of information such as operating schedules. The next generation CBM is an innovative method to achieve highly-automated and autonomous vessel operation as aiming by NYK group. In addition, by applying the condition-monitoring technology established in the next-generation CBM, J-ENG aims to contribute to the marine industries by realizing manned autonomous ships through the above advanced automation of ship management using IoT and AI technologies.

＜ClassNK Press Release＞

＜NYK Press Release＞

＜MTI Press Release＞