Client: Indian Navy
Application: Main Propulsion Engine Monitoring (9.3 MW MAN Engine)
Objective: One-Year Trial for Comprehensive System Evaluation

Context

The Indian Navy installed our Vib 360 Monitoring System on one of the tankers, a high-capacity tanker powered by a 9.3 MW MAN single-screw propulsion engine, for a one-year trial period. The goal was to assess the system’s ability to identify potential engine anomalies and enhance operational efficiency. Over the course of the trial, the Vib 360 system detected several critical issues that had gone undetected by the engine control panel.

Case 1: Combustion Anomaly in Fuel Injector Unit 5

During routine monitoring, the Vib 360 system detected a significant drop in the engine’s combustion condition, which had fallen to 56% efficiency. Specifically, Fuel Injector 5 exhibited a notable performance decline, resulting in a 2.4% drop in fuel efficiency. Interestingly, the engine control panel displayed no faults or warnings during this period.

Upon further investigation, the system pinpointed Fuel Injector 5 as the root cause of the issue. The engine was subsequently opened, and it was discovered that the injector spray orifices had become enlarged, compromising fuel delivery and combustion efficiency. The faulty injector was replaced, and all engine parameters returned to optimal levels, restoring fuel efficiency.

Case 2: Bearing Deterioration in Unit 6

In a separate instance, the Vib 360 system flagged bearing deterioration in Unit 6. After the engine was opened for inspection, the bottom-end bearing on Unit 6 was found to be defective. The defective bearing was replaced promptly, preventing further wear and potential engine failure.

Other Defects Identified

Throughout the one-year trial, the system continued to detect multiple other anomalies, all of which were verified upon inspection and rectified before they could escalate into more serious issues.

Wider Fleet Application

Following the successful trial, similar tests were conducted on two additional Naval vessels, further confirming the accuracy and reliability of the Vib 360 system in identifying hidden engine defects.

Outcome

As a result of the successful trial and proven ability to detect critical engine anomalies, the Vib 360 system has been approved for fleet-wide procurement. This proactive approach to engine health monitoring ensures early fault detection, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced downtime, enhancing the overall operational readiness of the Indian Navy’s fleet.

Conclusion

The Vib 360 Monitoring System proved indispensable during its one-year trial; accurately identifying defects that had eluded conventional engine control systems. By addressing combustion inefficiencies, fuel injector malfunctions, and bearing deterioration early, the system has contributed to substantial operational improvements. The Indian Navy has now initiated procurement for fleet-wide deployment, recognizing Vib 360 as a crucial tool for maintaining engine performance and reducing costly repairs across its vessels.