CARGO / BALLAST AUTOMATION: Loading/discharge software easy to install or retrofit
A converted FPSO has become the first offshore application of Kockum Sonics’ Shipmaster cargo and ballast automation system. The technology’s main benefits include installation flexibility and user-friendliness, according to account manager Andreas Madsen.
Screen view of the control system of Kockum Sonics’ Shipmaster cargo and ballast automation system.
The FPSO is the former Fred Olsen tankerKnock Adoon, which left Dubai Drydocks Shipyard in June following its conversion. Kockum Sonics has since been asked to incorporate a booster pump for crude offloading into the system.
In August the company retrofitted a Shipmaster onIndra, a tanker belonging to Latvian Shipping. In general, the ship owner can decide which parts of the existing automation package need to be retained, and Kockum Sonics will incorporate them into the Shipmaster system. The larger automation companies are reluctant to take this approach, preferring to sell complete new systems, Madsen says.
Shipmaster builds on Kockum Sonics’ expertise in loading computer systems and draught and tank level gauging systems, such as the Loadmaster 5X and Levelmaster H8. The company has built extensive knowledge collecting data from a wide array of gauging systems; it was therefore relatively straightforward to integrate the available information, and add in valve, pump, and power pack control to make a complete cargo and ballast system, Madsen says.
Shipmaster, which runs on Windows XP, has a modern user interface and advanced system capabilities, and is easy to operate for users with modest computer skills. Since it is based on standard PC components, spare parts are readily available at low cost.
In the case of the delivery to Latvian Shipping, Shipmaster was retrofitted while the tanker was in transit between ports. This method is preferable, Madsen says, because when the vessel is in dry-dock, the cargo and ballast systems usually are closed down.
Loadmaster X5 is a flexible tool for planning and controlling loading and discharging operations while meeting the requirements for draft, trim, and stress. Tailor-made packages are available for different types of vessel. In the case of an offshore platform, features include longitudinal/transverse stability calculation, damage calculation according to MODU requirements, and riser and mooring line tension.
The tanker package includes automatic online connection to the tank gauging system giving the operator full control of the cargo, ballast and fuel flow. Alerts can be sounded at pre-defined ullages. Other features include graphical loading/discharging sequence simulation and prediction.
For more information contact Andreas Madsen, Kockum Sonics. Tel +46 40 671 8818, fax +46 4021 6513,[email protected], www.kockumsonics.com