Prescriptive Maintenance

Prescriptive maintenance in marine engineering is an advanced maintenance strategy that combines predictive analytics with actionable, tailored recommendations. It uses big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to analyse real-time data and provide specific, evidence-based solutions to maintenance challenges.

Unlike traditional or predictive maintenance approaches, prescriptive maintenance anticipates potential issues and prescribes precise mitigation actions based on the equipment’s condition, operational load, environmental factors, and future usage predictions.

By integrating AI, the system continuously learns and improves, identifying patterns and potential failures that human operators or basic predictive models might miss. This strategy ensures marine vessels operate optimally, enhancing efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

Real-Time Data Monitoring and Analysis

Real-time data collection from advanced sensors and IoT devices enables prescriptive maintenance. Data such as temperature, vibration patterns, and engine performance is continuously analysed to detect anomalies, trends, and potential issues before they escalate.

Decision Support Systems (DSS)

DSS leverages advanced analytics and expert systems to provide actionable recommendations. It evaluates cost implications, time requirements, and resource availability to ensure maintenance actions are effective, timely, and aligned with operational priorities.

 Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)

FMEA systematically identifies potential failure points, their causes, and their impacts on marine systems. It prioritises critical maintenance tasks, helping engineers mitigate risks and enhance vessel reliability and safety.

Maintenance Scheduling Optimisation

Using predictive algorithms, this component identifies optimal maintenance schedules, preventing early or delayed interventions. It considers factors like equipment conditions, failure rates, operational schedules, and external conditions to maximise uptime and reduce disruptions.

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Benefits of Prescriptive Maintenance

Informed Decision-Making

Prescriptive maintenance equips marine engineers with actionable insights based on real-time data, enabling proactive and informed decision-making to preempt failures and optimise operations.

Optimised Maintenance Operations

This approach eliminates unnecessary interventions and reduces downtime by timing maintenance precisely. It ensures the smooth integration of maintenance activities with operational schedules.

Enhanced System Reliability

By addressing issues before they escalate, prescriptive maintenance ensures the consistent performance of marine systems, reducing risks of unexpected breakdowns and enhancing operational safety.

Cost Savings

Proactive maintenance reduces emergency repair costs and extends equipment life. This cost-effective strategy lowers overall operational expenses and boosts profitability.

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 Examples

Prescriptive Maintenance for Dual-Fuel MAN B&W Engines

Prescriptive maintenance optimises fuel usage and prevents failures for Aframax tankers equipped with dual-fuel MAN B&W engines. Real-time sensor data, such as exhaust temperature and fuel pressure, predicts inefficiencies or wear. Tailored actions like fuel injection adjustments or targeted inspections reduce fuel consumption and emissions while avoiding operational disruptions.

Prescriptive Maintenance for Tanker Hulls

Hull stress monitoring systems and corrosion sensors predict areas prone to damage. For instance, increased corrosion activity might prompt proactive inspections or recommend route adjustments. This ensures structural safety, compliance with maritime standards, and significant cost savings on repairs.

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Conclusion

Prescriptive maintenance represents a paradigm shift in marine engineering, leveraging IoT, AI, and machine learning to transform data into actionable insights. This proactive approach enhances reliability, reduces operational costs, and ensures compliance with safety standards. By adopting prescriptive maintenance, the maritime industry can achieve safer, more efficient operations, ensuring the longevity of vessels and equipment in demanding marine environments.

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FAQs on Prescriptive Maintenance in Marine Engineering

1. What is prescriptive maintenance, and how is it different from predictive maintenance?
Prescriptive maintenance predicts potential issues and provides actionable recommendations tailored to specific circumstances, making it more advanced than predictive maintenance.

2. How does prescriptive maintenance improve vessel safety?
Prescriptive maintenance enhances vessel safety and reduces the risk of equipment failure at sea by identifying potential issues early and prescribing precise maintenance actions.

3. What technologies enable prescriptive maintenance?
Prescriptive maintenance relies on AI, machine learning, IoT sensors, big data analytics, and real-time monitoring systems to gather and analyse operational data.

4. Can prescriptive maintenance help reduce costs?
Yes, it lowers costs by preventing major breakdowns, optimising maintenance schedules, and extending equipment life through timely interventions.

5. What are practical examples of prescriptive maintenance applications in the marine industry?
Examples include optimising dual-fuel engine performance and predicting hull corrosion for targeted maintenance, improving efficiency and reducing costs.

Disclaimer:

Out of Box Maritime Thinker © by Narenta Gestio Consilium Group 2022 and Aleksandar Pudar assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this paper. The information in this paper is provided on an "as is" basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness or of the results obtained from using this information. The ideas and strategies should never be used without assessing your company's situation or system or consulting a consultancy professional. The content of this paper is intended to be used and must be used for informational purposes only.