Datum Electronics: How Measuring Shaft Power Can Save Money on Fuel & Maintenance

The Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) requirements were made legally binding by the MARPOL Annex VI, the first climate change treaty to be adopted since the Kyoto Protocol. The technical requirements in this treaty are aimed at promoting the use of more energy efficient (less polluting) equipment and engines. A measurement of shaft power can not only help to meet these requirements, but also save money on fuel and the maintenance of your fleet. In determining the best way to save fuel, we must initially understand how it is utilised and how efficient the vessel is in converting the energy. A complex ship system will already provide much of the information, required to ascertain fuel usage and maintenance of the vessel, but measurement of shaft power can show the efficiencies.