Most of the operating costs of a ship are fuel related. Therefore it is important to use fuel in the most efficient way. The measurement and control of the viscosity and density ensures an improved combustion efficiency preventing engine damage, reducing cost of maintenance and minimizing the greenhouse gas emissions.
Viscosity, Density and temperature measurement
ViscoSense® is a highly accurate sensor with a superior measuring principle based on proven technology. Where the ViscoSense®3 provides measurements of viscosity and temperature of the oil, the sensor of the ViscoSense®3D measures the same but also the density. When used in conjunction with VAF Instruments PT2 Flowmeters, this measurement system represents a cost-effective solution for mass flow measurement.
Viscosity control
A significant variation in the quality and composition of fuel oil makes predicting the behavior of the fuel oil at higher temperatures challenging. Calculated Carbon Aromaticity Index (CCAI) is the index for the ignition quality of residual fuel oil and is calculated from density and viscosity of the fuel. An optimal viscosity is required for the most effective atomization of HFO in the engine, ensuring the complete combustion of the fuel without leaving residual deposits.
Mass flow measurement
In general, fuel is purchased in metric tonnes. Therefore, for consistency, fuel consumption is preferably monitored in kilograms. The intelligent utilization of existing components of the fuel system, coupled with an upgrade of the viscosity sensor, facilitates mass flow measurement.