It is important to address obsolescence issues early in current supply chain congestion, as obsolete or unavailable components can impact fleet availability. Early action such as switching to new technologies can minimize the impact of obsolescence and ensure availability,
even extend the life of the automation system and vessel. Through our continuous development, we can provide regular updates in the form of upgrades for optimized operation of your vessels and fleets.
With obsolescence upgrades as part of mid-term refits, we provide assistance to propulsion systems in the middle of their life cycle. Worn parts are replaced, age-related failures are avoided, and functions and capabilities are brought up to original levels. The retrofit includes replacing the mechanical governor with our new ADEC-UNI electronic governor which is a prerequisite for further refit with state-of-the-art marine automation solutions such as our mtu NautIQ portfolio.
Military research study of Vyacheslav A. Kharchenko: Problems of reliability of electronic components
Ensure the availability of your vessel in three steps
The engine control unit (ECU) is the engine’s central control unit and affects all important functions, including fuel delivery, ignition and emissions control. Incorrect replacement or configuration of the ECU can cause serious damage to the engine and endanger safety. The ECU should only be replaced by mtu certified technicians, as only they have the specific knowledge and experience to understand and handle the complex electronics and mechanics of the engine. If necessary, engine-related electronics (wiring, sensors, controllers) and associated components that may affect the life of the engine (e.g. the injection pump) can be replaced in addition.
Addressing obsolescence is particularly critical for the brain of the vessel – the main control unit (MCU) located of the ship’s bridge. It is the control center where all signals converge, are processed and acted upon. Effective bridge modernization can include the upgrade of the MCU and bridge components like touchscreen, keyboard, trackball, printer as well as the upgrade of the propulsion control system (PCS) and the remote control system (RCS) (i.e. throttle, gauges, oil pressure).
Once all the relevant hardware and software adjustments have been completed, a a state-of-the-art intelligent electronic management system can be installed to benefit from comprehensive vessel function control. Our advanced automation management systems mtu NautIQ Master, mtu NautIQ Core and mtu NautIQ Foresight allow you to fully integrate the operational functions of your vessel. As a result, you have complete command over a wide range of functions and capabilities throughout the vessel.