ENGINE PROBLEMS IN OFFSHORE EXPLORATION VESSELS
Engine lacquering and deposit build-up was leading to higher maintenance costs and reduced productivity
Offshore exploration company Polarcus discovered their fleet of seismic survey vessels was suffering engine problems. Engine crankcases were covered in deposits. On one vessel, the sump-level sensor was blocked and damaged.
Engineers had difficulty removing residues, and several heaters burnt out due to reduced or blocked flow and rapid temperature increases. The deposits were damaging mechanical components, producing increase wear and maintenance costs.
The cause was identified as inadequate engine oil.
Benefits
Outstanding control of high temperature deposits
Extended oil life above OEM-recommended intervals
Excellent protection of ring sticking
Maintains viscosity and reduces wear
Reduces maintenance costs and extends engine life
The SOLUTION
A high performance monograde diesel engine oil
ExxonMobil engineers advised that the fleet would benefit from a higher-quality engine oil with good deterdency and dispersant qualities, and recommended a move to Mobil Delvac™ 1640 engine oil.
This high-performance monograde diesel engine oil is formulated to minimise oil thickening while protecting against high-temperature deposits, sludge buildup, oil degradation and corrosion. Engineers changed over the engine oil on one vessel at first and this produced positive results. The company therefore rolled out a change to Mobil Delvac 1640 across its entire fleet.
The IMPACT
Reduced deposits, lower maintenance, improved productivity
Mobil Delvac 1640 oil reduced buildup in lacquering, sludge and carbon deposits, and also gradually cleaned existing deposits across engine components. Cleaning and maintenance time and costs have dramatically reduced since the changeover, with simple checks highlighting no new deposits or damage.
With these issues resolved, Polarcus has been able to keep vessels running, avoiding further maintenance downtime and potential operating losses. Polarcus has also lowered oil consumption by an average of 28%.
Delvac 1600 Series
Mobil Delvac Series are extra high performance diesel engine oils formulated from advanced base oils with a balanced additive system.
The advanced technology in Mobil Delvac 1630, 1640 and 1650 provides exceptional performance in both modern diesel engines as well as older models.
Mobil Serv℠
Mobil Serv℠ Oil Analysis is an oil testing program that provides cost savings, improved productivity peace of mind.
ExxonMobil is a leader in oil analysis technology, providing you with reliable information, recommended action steps and even on-site support.
