One unfortunate offshoot of tighter shipping regulations is increased paperwork for those who man the ships. It needs to be done, of course, but it could add to to crew fatigue and stress. Fortunately, technology is helping address the issue. Martek Marine, for example, has launched a new gas monitoring system for tankers and reefer vessels called Marine Tankscape. The device removes the need for seafarers to take hand notes on deck by producing a certificate for Port State Control and other inspectors as well as storing the information for download.
The new system incorporates seven instruments for confined space and cargo monitoring and inert gases into one instrument and allows up to five gases to be measured and displayed at the same time. It uses infrared technology for accurate readings from the atmosphere within the tanks. Marine Tankscape can detect oxygen, hydrogen sulphine, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide levels.
Marine Tankscape comes complete with a suite of application software. The bespoke software not only allows simple on-board calibration, but enables one to print out calibration certificates. In addition, complete data-logging software comes as standard allowing logged gas readings, with vessel locations, to be uploaded to a PC. The system has ATEX and MED approval.
It’s not just a matter of time-saving. Said Martek Marine director Steve Coulson: “The tragic deaths (last week) of five Indian seafarers aboard the LNG tanker MV Maharshi Krishnatreya, apparently due to asphyxiation by poisonous gases, sadly highlights the importance of robust gas detection systems.” Marine Tankscape enhances maritime safety. Any product that does so smartly gets our thumbs up. ~Barista Uno
Marine Tankscape specifications
Measuring Ranges
• 0 to 100% LEL (Infrared)
• 0 to 100% Volume Gas (Infrared)
• 0 to 25% Oxygen (O2)
• 0 to 100ppm Hydrogen Sulphine (H2S)
• 0 to 20% Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Infrared
• 0 to 1000 ppm Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Display
• LCD with backlighting
Resolution
• LEL – 0 to 100% – 1%
Vol Gas
• – 0 to 100% – 1%
Oxygen
• – 0 to 21% – 0.1%
• 21 to 25% – 1%
Hydrogen
• – 0 to 100ppm – 1ppm
Carbon Dioxide
• – 0 to 5% – 0.1%
• 5 to 20% – 0.5%
Carbon Monoxide
• – 0 to 1000ppm – 1ppm
Alarms
• Highly visible flashing LED’s on display panel. Sounder in excess of 80dB(A), typically 85dB(A) @12in.
Sampling System
• Integral pump with flow fall sensor. Sample path is protected by a hydrophobic filter and automatic pump switch-off.
Physical Properties
Weight
• 1.35 kg (3.0 lbs)
Dimensions
• 180mm (7.1in) x 95mm (3.7in) x 100mm (3.9in)
Construction / Protection Rating
• Moulded polypropylene case protected to IP54
Power Supply
• 2 Alkaline Cells or 2 Rechargeable Cells
Battery Life
• 2 x Alkaline 20 Hrs
• 2 x Rechargeable 8 Hrs
Environment
Temperature Limits
• -20C to +50C (-4F to 122F)
Humidity:
• 0 to 100% R.H. non-condensing
