Inert Gas Systems: What They Are and How They Benefit Ships
An inert gas system is a type of gas system that is used to help prevent fires and explosions on ships. They work by creating an inert atmosphere inside the ship, which prevents the combustion of flammable materials. These systems are required on all ships that carry flammable liquids, such as crude oil and refined petroleum products.
There are two main types of inert gas systems: closed loop and open loop. Closed loop systems recirculate the inert gas within the ship, while open loop systems vent the inert gas overboard. Inert gas systems can also be used to help control the atmosphere inside a ship’s cargo hold, by keeping oxygen levels low and preventing the growth of explosive gasses.
Inert gas systems are an important safety measure for ships carrying flammable liquids. They can help to prevent fires and explosions, and protect the crew and cargo from the harmful effects of combustion.
How an Inert Gas System Works
An inert gas system is a safety measure used on ships to prevent fires and explosions. Inert gas is pumped into the ship’s holds before and during loading and unloading operations. This displaces the air in the hold, creating an oxygen-free environment. Without oxygen, combustion cannot occur.
Inert gas systems are typically used on oil tankers and chemical carriers. They are also used on some types of cargo ships, such as those that carry dangerous goods.
Inert gas systems usually consist of a network of pipes and pumps that connect the ship’s holds to an onboard gas generation plant. The plant typically uses nitrogen or carbon dioxide to generate the inert gas.
The use of inert gas systems is regulated by international maritime law. Ships that are required to have an inert gas system must be equipped with a certificate attesting to their compliance.
Why Inert Gas System is Critical For Ships
The use of an inert gas system (IGS) is critical for the safe operation of ships. An IGS prevents the formation of explosive mixtures of flammable vapors and air in cargo tanks, thereby minimizing the risk of fire and explosion.
An inert gas system is typically made up of three main parts: a gas generator, a distribution system, and an exhaust system. The gas generator produces the inert gas that is pumped into the ship’s atmosphere. The distribution system carries the gas throughout the ship, and the exhaust system vents it overboard.
The inert gas is typically nitrogen or carbon dioxide. Nitrogen is the preferred inert gas for most applications because it is inexpensive and readily available. Carbon dioxide can also be used as an inert gas, but it is more expensive and can pose a safety risk if it leaks into the atmosphere.
The IGS is designed to maintain the cargo tanks at a pressure slightly below atmospheric pressure. This prevents air from entering the tanks and mixing with the flammable vapors that are present.
Inert gas systems are required by law in many countries for ships that carry flammable liquids in bulk. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has also adopted regulations that require the use of an IGS on all ships carrying flammable liquids in bulk.
The installation of an IGS is a complex and expensive proposition, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. An IGS provides a high degree of safety for the ship and its crew, and it minimizes the risk of fire and explosion.
Repair and Maintenance for Inert Gas System on Ships
Kangrim Repair and regular maintenance are required for IG systems in order to function properly.
This guide will provide an overview of the most common maintenance and repair tasks for inert gas systems.
Inspecting the Gas Generator
The gas generator is the heart of the inert gas system. It must be regularly inspected to ensure that it is operating properly. The most common issue with gas generators is carbon buildup. This can be caused by a number of things, including incomplete combustion and insufficient airflow.
If carbon buildup is found, it must be removed. This can be done by manually scrubbing the generator with a stiff brush or by using a chemical cleaner. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning the generator.
Cleaning the Distribution System
The distribution system is responsible for carrying the inert gas throughout the ship. Over time, dirt and debris can build up in the system, which can reduce its efficiency. It is important to clean the distribution system on a regular basis to ensure that it is operating properly.
There are a few different ways to clean the distribution system. The most common method is to use compressed air. This will blow the dirt and debris out of the system. Another method is to use a chemical cleaner. This will dissolve the buildup, making it easier to flush out of the system.
Inspecting the Exhaust System
The exhaust system vents the inert gas overboard. It is important to regularly inspect the exhaust system to ensure that it is not blocked. If the exhaust system is blocked, it could cause the inert gas to build up inside the ship, which could be dangerous.
There are a few different ways to clear a blocked exhaust system. The most common method is to use compressed air. This will blow the blockage out of the system. Another method is to use a chemical cleaner. This will dissolve the blockage, making it easier to flush out of the system.
Checking the Inert Gas Levels
The level of inert gas in the ship’s atmosphere must be constantly monitored. If the level gets too low, it could allow flammable vapors to enter the ship. This could lead to an explosion or fire.
There are a few different ways to check the inert gas levels. The most common method is to use a gas detector. This will measure the level of inert gas in the atmosphere and sound an alarm if it gets too low. Another method is to use a carbon dioxide monitor. This will measure the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and sound an alarm if it gets too high.
Testing the Inert Gas System
Kangrim Repair and maintenance also involves regularly testing the IG system to ensure that it is working properly. The most common test is the pressure test. This test measures the pressure of the inert gas in the ship’s atmosphere.
The pressure test can be done manually or with a machine. If the test is done manually, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If the test is done with a machine, it is important to make sure that the machine is properly calibrated.
