On the Significance of Performance Monitoring and Proper Data Handling for the Timely Evaluation of Hull and Propeller Condition

Regulations, Charterers, but also economy and prudence, push the industry for increased efficiency in fuel consumption and in maintenance. The solution proposed by most key players is switching from fixed period maintenance (which can be sooner or later than the optimum) to an "as needed" basis, depending on each operator's criteria (i.e. comparing fuel cost to maintenance cost, keeping EEOI in a set range, avoiding fuel or speed claims etc.)For such a timely decision making to be successful, however, proper, consistent accurate and reliable monitoring is key, along with proper filtering settings for isolating effects and choosing inputs, and of course a good understanding of the underlying mechanics and frugality with the assumptions in use. In this paper, an approach to this multi-faceted problem is presented by using an ISO 19030 compliant method, on top of Vector daq (data acquisition) platform for two different ships and some key points are discussed. The potential of such methods is displayed and the possibility of distinguishing the hull from propeller effects is approached.