VAF Instruments ODME MK6
VAF Instruments ODME MK6 (Oil Discharge Monitoring Equipment) setup.
📌 What is it?
The ODME (Oil Discharge Monitoring Equipment) is a mandatory system on tankers, required by MARPOL Annex I to monitor and record discharges of oily water into the sea, ensuring they stay within legal limits.
📊 Key Components Visible:
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VAF Instruments Control Unit (top left)
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Contains a keypad, display, and control electronics for managing system functions, setting parameters, and logging data.
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Measuring Cell & Sensors (middle section)
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The heart of the ODME system, where a sample of the ballast or tank wash water is analyzed for oil content.
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Connected to various sensors for pressure, flow, and sample control.
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Pump Unit (left side)
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Draws a sample from the discharge line for continuous monitoring.
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Pressure Gauge (bottom middle)
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Monitors sample line pressure, ensuring proper flow through the measuring cell.
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Solenoid Valves (bottom right)
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Manage the direction of the sample flow (e.g., to overboard or slop tank).
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Flow & Pressure Transmitters (center-right)
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Provide feedback to the control unit for monitoring and alarm functions.
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Data Logger/Printer (optional, not clearly visible here but typical in the full setup)
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Records discharge events with date, time, oil concentration, and ship’s position.
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📦 Manufacturer:
VAF Instruments — a Dutch manufacturer known for marine flow measurement, oil monitoring, and emission control systems.
📌 Typical Applications:
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Monitoring and controlling oil content in ballast and tank cleaning water discharges.
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Logging and reporting discharge events for environmental compliance.
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Automatic overboard discharge stopping if oil content exceeds legal limits.
📌 How It Works:
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Water sample drawn by the pump.
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Passes through the measuring cell.
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Oil content measured using optical detection principles.
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Data displayed and logged in the control unit.
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If ppm exceeds the set threshold, system triggers alarms and stops discharge automatically.