A Vessel is only ever as Good as the Oil that it’s Using

Owners and operators of all commercial shipping fleets will know all about the importance of efficiency, and how this vital factor can have an effect on so much of the subsequent success. Whether a ship is carrying passengers from one port to another or delivering cargo to a destination on the other side of the world, efficiency really is everything.

Those who work below decks will know that an engine that works properly and to its full potential will bring with it its own rewards. For owners, any downtime can prove to be extremely expensive, and that’s why everything needs to be in good working order from the first minute of the voyage right through to the last.

One of the best ways to make sure all is well with the mechanics is to implement a regular regime of oil condition monitoring, because any issues in this vital area will soon start to affect the ship’s performance. Repairs can be exceptionally costly, in both maintenance prices and downtime, so an early warning system provided by testing should be welcomed on all vessels.

Corrosion can lead to a number of costly problems

Engines, whether they are in ships, cars, planes or motorcycles, rely on good quality oil to keep a series of crucial parts lubricated and working well. If this isn’t the case, some major corrosion could result after a relatively short space of time. To avoid such headaches, oil condition monitoring really is a must-have.

There are a number of potential issues which can be detected by regular tests, so it’s vital for owners and operators of both individual vessels and large fleets to introduce regular testing. Any potential problems can then be identified far sooner, and a regime of preventative maintenance can then be implemented. It can save a substantial amount of money if action can be taken at the right time.

The shipping industry has become increasingly competitive in recent years, and it’s no exaggeration to say that every voyage has the potential to be a make or break journey. If there are serious problems with the engine, the drive-chain or any other machinery, the overall cost is likely to be high. And while every operator will allow for a certain amount of maintenance in their annual budget, if more outlay is needed this can have a detrimental effect on the profit and loss sheet.