Packing Specification
ODME Calibration Service Details:
- System
Verification and Functional Testing:
- Checking
the system's overall functionality, including the alarm and control
logic.
- Verifying
that the system correctly calculates the oil discharge rate (in L/NM)
based on inputs from the oil content meter, flow meter, and ship's speed
(from GPS).
- Simulating
an alarm condition to ensure the system correctly closes the overboard
discharge valve and opens the slop tank valve, redirecting the oily
mixture for further processing.
- Calibration
of the Oil Content Meter:
- This
is the most critical part of the service. It involves using a certified
test fluid with a known oil concentration (e.g., 500 PPM) to check the
accuracy of the oil content meter.
- The
technician will flush the measuring cell, introduce the test fluid, and
verify that the analyzer's reading is within the acceptable tolerance,
usually ±10%.
- For
some systems, a "zero" calibration using fresh water is also
performed.
- Physical
Inspection and Maintenance:
- Checking
for any leaks in the sample lines, pumps, and valves.
- Inspecting
and cleaning the measuring cell, which can accumulate oil or other
deposits that affect readings.
- Checking
and servicing the automatic cleaning system (e.g., fresh water flush,
wiper blades), which is vital for maintaining the cell's accuracy.
- Verifying
the proper functioning of the sample pump and all pneumatic valves.
- Documentation
and Certification:
- After
the service is completed successfully, the technician will issue a
detailed service report.
- An
official Calibration Certificate is provided, which must be kept
on board the vessel for inspection by port state control authorities or
classification societies. This certificate typically includes the
vessel's details, the ODME system's specifications, the service date, and
the "as-found" and "as-left" calibration data.
Service Frequency and Spares
- Annual
Verification: IMO guidelines and regulations generally require an
annual functional check and verification of the ODME system's accuracy.
This is often done during the IOPP annual survey.
- Five-Year
Recertification: Many manufacturers recommend a more comprehensive
calibration and cell renewal every five years, often coinciding with the
IOPP renewal survey.
- Spares:
A proper ODME service also includes checking the vessel's onboard spares
inventory to ensure it complies with the manufacturer's recommendations
and regulatory requirements. This is crucial for quick repairs and
minimizing downtime.