Transition to Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) with IRS Using Vib360
Customer Profile
- Customer: Gujarat Ambuja Cement Ltd.
- Asset: Main Propulsion Engines
- Vessels: Ambuja Gauri and Ambuja Bhavani
Vessel Type: Shore-based mini bulk carriers
Engine type: Medium and slow-speed 4 Stroke diesel Main engines - Engine make & model: YANMAR / N21EV (6Cyl / 8 Cyl )
- Classification Society: Indian Register of Shipping (IRS)
Context
Gujarat Ambuja initiated a transition from Planned Maintenance System (PMS) to Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) under IRS rules.
The objective was to reduce unnecessary time-based overhauls while maintaining full Class compliance.
Vib360 was selected as the primary condition-monitoring system to support this transition.
Problem Statement
Traditional PMS relies on fixed intervals and may not reflect actual machinery conditions.
For CBM acceptance, Class requires continuous, repeatable, and auditable condition data.
The challenge was to demonstrate that Vib360 data could justify maintenance decisions based on condition.
Objective of Vib360 Assessment
- Establish continuous monitoring of engine condition
- Generate stable, repeatable condition trends
- Use Vib360 data as the basis for maintenance decisions
- Achieve formal IRS CBM acceptance
Monitoring Setup and Data Governance
- Flywheel-mounted Magnetic Pickup Unit (MPU)
- Continuous monitoring of torsional vibration and angular speed variation
- Defined operating windows and trend-based evaluation
- Traceable historical records maintained for audit
Physics-Based Condition Monitoring Findings
- Vib360 demonstrated stable baseline torsional behaviour under normal operation.
- Clear differentiation was observed between normal variability and genuine mechanical deviation.
- The data provided continuous evidence of machinery condition over time.
Maintenance Decision Process
- Maintenance actions were planned based on measured condition rather than elapsed time.
- Equipment was retained in service when condition indicators remained stable.
- This represented a formal shift from PMS logic to CBM logic.
IRS Review and Acceptance
IRS reviewed the monitoring methodology, trend stability, and data traceability.
Following review, IRS accepted the Vib360-based CBM framework and granted CBM notation.
Outcome and Value
- Decision making tool on maintenance issues
- Improved vessel availability
- Increased confidence in maintenance planning
CBM and Class Relevance
Demonstrates Vib360 as a Class-accepted enabler of CBM, not merely an advisory tool.
Technical Significance
Confirms Vib360’s role as a maintenance governance tool supporting Class-approved CBM.