By Giampiero Soncini

As we advance in the digitalization and decarbonization of ships, the significance of precision and reliability in navigation and operational systems cannot be overstated. Sensors play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, efficiency and performance of vessels, and the calibration of sensors is an essential process to guarantee their functionality, accuracy, and reliability.

Safety

Senors provide critical data regarding a ship’s position, speed, heading and environmental conditions. For instance, GPS sensors determine a ship’s location, while radar systems detect other vessels and obstacles. If these sensors are not calibrated correctly, the data they provide can be inaccurate. This inaccuracy can lead to navigational errors, increasing the risk of collisions and groundings. Regular calibration ensures that sensors provide reliable data, enabling crews to make informed decisions that prioritize the safety of the vessel, crew and cargo.

Efficiency

Operational efficiency is directly linked to the performance of a ship’s systems, many of which rely on sensor data. For example, fuel consumption can be optimized when sensors accurately monitor engine performance and environmental conditions. Accurate measurements from flowmeters, temperature gauges and pressure sensors, for example, enable better control of machinery and processes. Calibration ensures that these measurements are precise, which can lead to more efficient fuel use, reduced emissions and lower operational costs. In an industry where margins are often tight, the economic benefits of proper sensor calibration can be substantial.

Compliance

Regular sensor calibration helps ship operators demonstrate compliance with international maritime standards, such as those set forth by the International Maritime Organization and various flag state regulations. Maintaining calibrated sensors not only meets regulatory requirements but also fosters a culture of safety and responsibility within the maritime industry.

Ships today are equipped with sophisticated monitoring and reporting systems that collect vast amounts of data. Without proper calibration, the validity of the data can be compromised, potentially leading to misguided decisions. For example, inaccurate data on ballast levels can affect stability and trim, leading to inefficient sailing or even hazardous conditions. Calibration ensures that data collected from various sensors is consistent and reliable, thus enhancing the decision-making process for ship operators.

At Oceanly, we have created the Performance platform to keep track of sensor data for remote fleet management.  Performance does not substitute for the proper calibration process, but it can help operators to be aware of when it’s needed.

As the maritime industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, sensor calibration plays a vital role in promoting sustainability, as accurate sensors help in monitoring emissions, fuel consumption and other environmental parameters. By ensuring that these sensors are properly calibrated, ships can optimize their operations to minimize waste and emissions, contributing to global efforts for environmental protection. This is particularly relevant in light of international regulations targeting greenhouse gas emissions from ships.

As the maritime industry continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, the importance of maintaining accurate and reliable sensor systems will only grow. Shipping companies must prioritize regular calibration schedules and invest in training their crews to ensure that all equipment remains in optimal working condition. By doing so, they can safeguard their operations against potential risks and contribute to a safer, more efficient, and sustainable maritime future.

Giampiero Soncini is the managing director of Oceanly.