ABS upgrades shaft monitoring solution

The ABS Smart Bearing solution will be installed on the propulsion shafting of the Capital managed vessel M/T Agisilaos, a 36,700 dwt, Ice Class 1A IMO II/III Chemical/Product Tanker.

“Shaft bearing failures typically are manifested through excessive temperature rise in the bearings,” says Dr Chris Leontopoulos, ABS’ marine technology manager.

He added: “The problem is that often, when high temperatures are reported, sufficient damage has taken place to immobilise the vessel. By proactively monitoring the bearing load, it is possible to tell if the shaft alignment is good or if unaccounted forces exerted on the shaft and the bearings are putting the system at risk of failure.”

The solution uses non-destructive testing sensors installed on the bearing pedestal and housing to measure and display the force exerted by the main propulsion shafting system onto the bearings, effectively converting the pedestal into a permanently installed weighing machine.

It aims to provide the earliest possible indication of a potential shaft misalignment, such as an overloaded or under loaded bearing, or an excessive misalignment angle of the shaft inside the bearing.

“We are always pleased to participate and contribute to the application of innovation and advanced technologies,” said Stavros Meidanis, DPA-S&Q Manager for Capital.

He concluded: “It is our company’s stated strategy to implement and enhance technological evolution with the aim of building a more sustainable shipping industry.”

This ABS research project is supported by the National Technical University of Athens and Metrisis, it will continue with further development of the sensor compactness and connectivity with the engine control room.