Starting in December, 2018, the first tests of the system will be conducted for three months on a tanker.
CBM-LINK is designed to help make on board water treatment significantly more efficient and cost-effective. The system comprises the two CBM and LINK systems that fit seamlessly together, RWO said.
CBM acts as the final control mechanism before bilge water is discharged. The compact system has a three-way valve, which allows the inflow of treated bilge water and water that is normally uncontaminated, such as condensate from air conditioners.
The system independently monitors whether, as prescribed by IMO Resolution MEPC 107 (49) for particularly sensitive sea areas (PSSA), maximum oil content of 0. 5 or 15 ppm in the water being discharged, is complied with and automatically transfers it either directly overboard or to the bilge water tank for further treatment.
This significantly reduces the quantity being treated by the bilge separator. Additional assurance is provided by a two-point measurement of oil content.
All modes of operation, valve positions, system configurations, ppm levels and OMD information can be viewed and read via digital and analogue interfaces. The system is claimed to be tamper-proof and prevents the deliberate or unintentional unlawful discharge of contaminated water.
LINK is a software system, which provides detailed information about its operation, as well as the composition of the bilge water. The information can be seen in real time, enabling timely adjustment of system modes.
Connected to the ship's communication system, it is able to access GPS co-ordinates.
Based on the data collected during the test phase, other features will be developed to further optimise the system’s operation. In 2019, for example, it should be possible for LINK to independently determine when filter changes are necessary, making planning for maintenance work considerably more efficient and minimising operating costs and downtime.