Independent Field Validation of Fault Detection and Localisation – Induced Injector Failure
Customer Profile
- Customer: Commercial vessel operator evaluating advanced condition-monitoring capability
- Asset: Both Main and Auxiliary Engine
- Main Engine: DOOSAN MAN B W -S50MC-C [ 8,700 kW @120RPM ]
- Auxiliary Engines: DOOSAN-MAN DIESEL- 5L23/30H [ 620KW @720RPM
- Operating context: In-service vessel, engine operating normally prior to test
Context
Vib360 was installed as a Proof of Concept (PoC) to evaluate detection and localisation capability under real operating conditions.
To enable objective validation, the customer intentionally induced a controlled fault during normal operation.
Problem Statement
For CBM to be effective, a system must detect faults and accurately localise them to a specific unit without prior knowledge.
This case validates that requirement.
Objective of Vib360 Assessment
- Detect a combustion fault autonomously
- Accurately localise the affected cylinder unit
- Demonstrate physics-based diagnosis
Induced Fault and Measurement Setup
- The customer randomly selected Unit No. 1 and cut fuel supply to that unit, simulating a failed injector.
- The selection was not disclosed to the Vib360 analysis process.
- Measurement used a flywheel-mounted MPU with continuous torsional monitoring.
Physics-Based Findings
- Vib360 detected loss of torque contribution at the firing event corresponding to Unit No. 1.
- Torsional harmonic distortion and angular acceleration asymmetry appeared immediately after fuel cut.
- The anomaly was stable, repeatable, and load-independent.
Mechanical / Operational Interpretation
Fuel cut eliminated combustion pressure in Unit No. 1, causing immediate torque imbalance.
The torsional signatures were fully consistent with a non-firing cylinder due to injector failure.
Action Taken
- The induced fault was disclosed and fuel supply restored.
- Normal torsional behaviour returned immediately.
Outcome and Value
- Correct fault detection without prior input
- Accurate localisation to Unit No. 1
- Strong validation of diagnostic confidence
CBM and Class Relevance
Demonstrates decision-grade localisation suitable for CBM and audit review.
Technical Significance
Confirms Vib360’s capability to move from anomaly detection to precise fault localisation.