How to use compressed air generated by an air compressor on ships
Everyone knows that, under normal circumstances, compressed air is widely used in the mining industry, the automobile industry to the manufacturing industry, and these are all used on land. Did you also know that the air compressors can also show their talents at sea? Marine ships are like floating plants, and various mechanical processes are happening at any time.
The main uses of compressed air produced by air compressors in marine applications are divided into the following 4 points:
1. Start the air
Compressed air is used on ocean-going ships as a powerful and storable energy source for starting large diesel engines. Although air is used at a lower pressure of <150psi, it is usually stored at a higher pressure to make better use of space while still allowing enough volume for multiple start-up attempts.
2. Control, instrument and working air
There are many systems and processes on board that require compressed air. Engine emission monitoring systems, throttle control, control valves and tool air are just a few of the many uses and applications of compressed air on ships.
3. Hull lubrication air
When the boat pushes the water, it encounters resistance. With a specially designed hull, low-pressure air can be blown through small holes, creating a layer of air between the hull and the water. This air layer will reduce the resistance of the ship when the potential fuel consumption efficiency exceeds 25% and the carbon dioxide emissions are significantly reduced.
4. Inert gas (nitrogen)
Ships that use LNG (liquefied natural gas) as a fuel source or transport LNG need to cover their fuel tanks with nitrogen to prevent the possibility of explosion. Instead of bringing nitrogen tanks on board, it makes more sense to generate nitrogen on site. To this end, the ship must first install an air compressor.
Classification society certification is a certificate issued by the shipbuilding supervision departments of various countries to allow a certain brand of air compressor to be installed after a series of performance tests.
Generally, the classification society certification will basically be based on the type approval certificate, or some products can be subjected to a single batch inspection certificate.
Conditions of Type Approval Certificate
2.1 The product design meets the applicable requirements of the regulations and/or other applicable standards (including key parts and accessories);
2.2 Possess suitable production equipment and inspection and test methods to ensure that the product quality meets the requirements;
2.3 Have manufacturing quality control that meets the specifications or applicable product standards or technical requirements formulated by the manufacturer;
2.4 The quality assurance system is operating normally;
2.5 Pass the type test.
It is said that there are few brands of air compressors in the world that have passed the certification of China Classification Society. Several large manufacturers such as Atlas, Sullair, and Ingersoll Rand have products certified by CCS.
Basically no Chinese brands!
Your product is used on the ship of which classification society. It will be certified by which classification society. Sometimes certain products can be used in two classification societies, but most of the time it is not possible.
Classification society inspection fees are different, including certification fees, travel expenses and overtime fees will also be incurred: Certification fee for a 132kw 10 kg air compressor: more than 100,000 RMB. There is also an annual audit fee for certification. It's also quite expensive.
