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ExxonMobil says an in-depth data analysis of more than 400,000 oil samples from its MobilGard Cylinder Condition Monitoring (CCM) programme has identified a wide range of potentially damaging engine issues facing vessel operators.

With operators challenged by continued economic pressures and changing regulations, ExxonMobil says the need to protect engines and drive operational efficiencies is "more important than ever".

MobilGard CCM is designed to help optimise engine protection and minimize operating costs, and the supplier says analysis from the advanced cylinder condition monitoring shows that operators have the opportunity to optimise their engine efficiency and also potentially mitigate catastrophic engine failures.

"In fact, as many as 50% of marine vessels have an opportunity to optimise feed rates," ExxonMobil notes. "In the most common scenario of over-lubrication, the result is wasted oil consumption and unnecessary expense. But the effects can be far more serious, generating excessive piston and liner wear that can ultimately lead to even more significant costs to operators."

The analysis also indicated that there was a growing issue with cat fines and continued cold corrosion challenges for many operators.

The key findings of the Mobilgard CCM programme included:

- 43% of vessels have an issue with cat fines, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure in severe cases.

- 15% are suffering from cold corrosion, which can reduce engine life dramatically if operators fail to address the problem quickly.

- 9% of vessels see high levels of iron in the scrape down oil. This is indicative of engine wear and can lead to reduced piston, liner and overall engine life.

- 25% are experiencing water washing problems. The presence of water in the engine removes the cylinder oil from the liners and can cause high wear.

"It is no secret that the marine industry is facing challenging times," commented Iain White, Global Marketing Manager at ExxonMobil Marine. "Operators are constantly under pressure to save money, so efficiency continues to be front of mind. The data captured by our MobilGard CCM programme has indicated that many are missing the opportunity to drive that efficiency, and some are even facing a real risk of catastrophic engine failure."

ExxonMobil's MobilGard CCM programme, built on 15 years of experience in cylinder condition monitoring and analysis, is designed to provide protection for slow-speed engines. Operators on the programme receive a tailored lubrication recommendation, based on extensive data samples that benchmark their specific engine and operating conditions.

"Regular MobilGard CCM analysis, coupled with support from ExxonMobil's experienced engineers, helps customers to optimise their feed rates, maximise their engine life and ultimately reduce overall operating costs," ExxonMobil said.

Image: Iain White, Global Marketing Manager at ExxonMobil Marine.