In the maritime industry, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations is paramount. One critical component in achieving this is the 15ppm bilge alarm system, and among the most trusted names in this domain is the Brannstrom BilgMon 488.
What Is the Brannstrom BilgMon 488?
The BilgMon 488 is a 15ppm bilge alarm designed to monitor and control the discharge of oily water from ships. It ensures that the oil content in the bilge water does not exceed the permissible limit of 15 parts per million (ppm), in line with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Resolution MEPC.107(49).
Key Features:
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Oil Content Range: 0–30 ppm
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Resolution: 0.1 ppm
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Accuracy: Compliant with IMO MEPC.107(49)
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Response Time: <5 seconds
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Power Supply: 115/230 VAC or 24V AC/DC
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Outputs: 0(4)–20 mA current output, relay outputs, and optional RS422 data output
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User Interface: LCD display with keypad for easy operation
How It Works
The BilgMon 488 utilizes infrared (IR) light detection to measure the oil content in the bilge water sample. The sensor detects the amount of light scattered by oil droplets, and the onboard microprocessor calculates the oil concentration in ppm. If the oil content exceeds the set threshold, the system activates alarms and can stop the discharge to prevent pollution.
Installation and Maintenance
One of the standout features of the BilgMon 488 is its compact design, making it ideal for retrofitting on existing oily water separators (OWS). Installation is straightforward, and the system is designed for easy maintenance:
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Measuring Cell Replacement: The detachable measuring cell can be replaced by the crew without special tools, ensuring minimal downtime.
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Calibration: Zero-point calibration can be adjusted on-site, while full sensor calibration is performed by the manufacturer.
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Battery Replacement: The newer models come with a replaceable real-time clock (RTC) battery, allowing for easy replacement by the crew.
Compliance and Regulatory Considerations
The BilgMon 488 is type-approved under IMO Resolution MEPC.107(49), ensuring it meets international standards for oil discharge monitoring. However, it's crucial for operators to:
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Regularly Check Stored Data: Ensure that the stored data is accurate and up-to-date.
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Verify Battery Health: Replace the RTC battery as needed to maintain data integrity.
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Maintain Calibration: Regularly calibrate the system to ensure accurate measurements.
Conclusion
The Brannstrom BilgMon 488 stands out as a reliable and user-friendly solution for monitoring oil content in bilge water. Its compliance with international standards, ease of installation and maintenance, and robust design make it a preferred choice for ship operators worldwide.
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