In a game-changing move for the maritime industry, Survitec’s brand, Maritime Protection, has unveiled a novel remote support service that promises to optimise system performance and bring down running costs for operators of Inert Gas (IG) systems. This service was successfully trialled with a top-tier tanker operator and is now set to revolutionise how ships manage IG systems.

The benefits of the new offering became clear during the recent Covid pandemic, when travel restrictions hampered the usual flow of traffic on and off ships, and onsite repair services were frequently obstructed. In response to this challenge, Maritime Protection and a renowned European tanker operator developed this remote support solution, which is now functioning aboard 32 product tankers.

Remote Support

The Remote Support service facilitates faster access to expert advice and support in case of system failures or inefficiencies. The IG engineers at Maritime Protection can remotely access the system, help fine-tune it, diagnose faults, and organise solutions, without the need for costly and time-consuming travel to the vessel.

Managing Director of Maritime Protection, Bernt Øhrn, commented, “Inert gas systems are essential and complex safety systems.” He highlighted that any failure is “effectively treated as an emergency situation requiring immediate remedial action,” and this service will help mitigate such scenarios.

Crew members on board simply have to reach out to Maritime Protection’s IG specialists, who can then offer guidance to rectify any issues. If a situation does warrant a physical visit, the service also enables technicians to identify the problem and the necessary spare parts in advance, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

The innovative Remote Support uses a secure VPN gateway, which is easy to install without any system wiring or modifications. For added security, a “key” switch is provided to enable or disable remote support and internet access swiftly, and it also functions as a firewall.

‘Significant fuel cost savings’

This innovative service was officially launched at the Nor-shipping event in Oslo, held from 6th-9th June. It offers an annual fee-based leasing model, which could include crew training, spare parts for the IG system, and regular system tune-ups to enhance fuel efficiency and increase system stability.

Øhrn concluded, “Our technicians can tune up the IG system remotely to stabilise the oxygen content,” noting that this could yield “significant fuel cost savings for each IG system.”