In 1947, a crankcase explosion caused by the ignition of engine oil mist killed 28 people and injured 23 others. In response to that disaster, the modern oil-mist detection industry was born.
For more than half a century, Schaller Automation has produced the Visatron Oil Mist Detector that now protects more than 50,000 marine diesel engines worldwide.
G.C. Maritime offers OEM authorized annual inspection, repair, spare parts, and maintenance, including measuring head exchange, on every model of Schaller Visatron OMD.
GCM general manager Hans Haneveld says: "Schaller Oil Mist Detectors are the industry standard. They do what they are supposed to do, which is create safety for the engine while giving vessel owners peace of mind. But these devices must have regularly scheduled service to keep them running trouble-free."
Although the invention of the oil mist detector has greatly reduced the number of crankcase explosions, they do still happen. By some estimates, there may be as many as three a week somewhere in the world. Many of these incidents have been traced back to incorrect tightening of various elements and the use of unauthorized spare parts.
Mr Haneveld continues: "False alarms and other problems are always caused by improper maintenance. Oil and dirt can settle on the scavenger air lines, the vibration dampeners, and the bellows. Air flow can be restricted when debris enters the nozzle or air pump. For this reason, we make it a priority to change out all filters and rubber parts with every inspection at no extra charge."
G.C. Maritime and L.A. Maritime provide optimum service to offshore operators and shipowners with a network of seven locations in North America such as Los Angeles, Miami, New York, New Orleans, Vancouver, Nassau and Houston.
Since beginning these businesses in 2003 by providing service on marine diesel engines, president Dieter Liebich, a Master Mariner and Mechanical Engineer, has grown the operations to include inspections on lifeboats and davits, general ship repair, sale of spare parts and LSA equipment, crew training, load testing on marine and offshore cranes, and technical consultation.
For more information, please contact G.C Maritime.