Marine diesel engine turbocharger fouling phenomenon risk assessment application by using fuzzy FMEA method

Abstract

Turbocharger fouling phenomenon was analyzed from the risk assessment perspective in this study. The research employed exhaust system and turbocharger equipment of commercial ship that equipped with a Doosan-MAN B&W 6S50 MC-C diesel engine was used as the main research materials, and utilized the fuzzy Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) based on the expert system as a methodical approach. The experts revealed different types of turbocharger fouling failure modes (FMs), along with their respective causes and subsequent consequences. Following that, the specialists allocated an O, S, and D score to each FM. Within the framework of fuzzy logic, the process entails the establishment of input and output membership functions, as well as the construction of a fuzzy model incorporating an inference mechanism and a rule base. Based on the analysis findings, the three primary factors are as follows: low cylinder compression pressure with a Fuzzy Risk Priority Number (FRPN) score of 6.95, high main engine fuel oil consumption with a score of 6.92, and high CO, CO2, SOx emissions with a 6.45. The phenomenon of turbocharger fouling, being an inherent occurrence, has significant ramifications on the main engine, the vessel as a whole, and the ecological surroundings. The quantitative results presented in this study provide valuable insights into the risks associated with maritime endeavors. The data generated from this research can be used by stakeholders in the maritime industry to better understand this situation and take proactive measures to mitigate potential risks in the future. Furthermore, the findings of the research provide corroboration for the implementation of predictive maintenance procedures.