EGCS BASICS

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Seawater is the main absorbing medium used in the exhaust gas cleaning process. Seawater is alkaline and thus offers a buffer and neutralization capacity. Seawater also contain large amounts of dissolved sulphates. The absorbed SO2 will only marginally increase the seawater content of sulphates. Commercial available NaOH solution (50%) is injected in both cleaning stages to boost the seawater alkalinity and thus increase the neutralization capacity and the absorption efficiency in the EGCS. This boost will also compensate for the fluctuating alkalinity content in the ambient seawater, and will reduce the amount of seawater used and raise the pH of the washwater.

Through efficient interaction between the highly alkaline seawater and the exhaust gas stream, SO2 and also particulate matter (PM) is dissolved in, or captured by, the liquid.

When dissolved in the liquid, SO2 originating from the burnt fuel oil will make the liquid acidic before the alkalinity in the water convert the sulphur to harmless sulphites/sulphates. Such sulphites/sulphates may be discharged to sea without further treatment.

SO2 is dissolved in seawater (reaction a), it reacts with water and forms an acid, H+ ions are produced (i.e pH decreases). Bicarbonate and carbonate in the seawater reacts with the released H+ , thus neutralizing part of the acidic effect from the absorbed SO2. The sulphite will react with the oxygen in the seawater and form sulphate (reaction c). Adding caustic soda (NaOH) to the seawater will increase the neutralizing capacity, last two reactions.

The washwater is monitored by measuring pH, PAH and turbidity. If the washwater exceeds given limits for turbidity and PAH, then a part of the washwater ("1st stage injection drain") may be cleaned through the Water treatment filter before being discharged to sea. Residue from the filter will be contained on board before being discharged to shore.

The system may operate in the following modes:

• Open loop mode

• Closed loop mode

• Open loop reduced load mode

• Closed loop reduced load mode

 

OPEN LOOP

Seawater is used as cleaning liquid and pass through the system once before being

monitored and then discharged to sea.

The seawater alkalinity is boosted with NaOH to increase the SOx absorption

A part of the washwater ("1st stage injection drain") is collected in the gas inlet section of

the scrubber, and this stream may be cleaned in the Water treatment filter before

discharge.

 

CLOSED LOOP (Alternative system)

Washwater is used as cleaning liquid and is recirculated through the system via the System

tank and Recirculation pump.

The washwater alkalinity is boosted with NaOH to increase the SOx absorption.

To avoid saturation, a bleed stream is drained from the Decanter tank to the Holding tank and a balancing amount of makeup water (seawater) is added to the System tank.

The recirculated washwater is cooled before being re-injected to the EGCU.

A part of the washwater ("1st stage injection drain") is collected in the gas inlet section of the scrubber, and this stream is cleaned in the Water treatment filter before recirculation.

 Provision of two basic Schemes for compliance to be used for EGCS approval, Scheme A or Scheme B, as the choice of the equipment manufacturer.

The two EGCS schemes apply the following concepts:

 • Scheme A - based on initial emission performance unit certification together with a continuous check of operating parameters and daily exhaust emission monitoring

• Scheme B - based on continuous exhaust emission monitoring together with a daily check of operating Parameters

 REQUIRED EGC SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION

 On board Documentation

SECP Sox emission compliance Plan

ETM-B EGCS technical Manual Scheme – B (ETM – B)

OMM Onboard Monitoring Manual

EGC Record Book or Electronic Logging system

The system consists of 2 water monitors:

No. 1 is installed close to the scrubbing water pumps measuring the (inlet) scrubbing water parameters pH and Turbidity, the pH value is used for monitoring purpose and to give alarm is it is too low, the Turbidity value is used to deduct it from the outlet value as the outlet limitations are above the inlet.

No. 2 is installed on the outlet of the system close to the over boards, measuring the

Wash water parameters pH, Turbidity and PAH (Poly Cyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)

-pH limits are different for each system and is specified in the ETM-B for the specific vessel.

-Turbidity limits are 25NTU with an exceedance allowance of 20% for every 12-hour period.

-The PAH limits are also different for each system and is stated in the ETM-B for the specific vessel. This parameter has also has an exceedance allowance of 100% of the limit for every 12-hour period.

 

 

WILL SHIPFINEX BE A GAME CHANGER IN SHIPPING

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As we all know and realize its very difficult to be a ship owner , as you need not only billions of money but the contacts the knowledge and the know how to carry forward shipping related operations complying with international rules and regulation. That is where the expertise of Capt. Vikas Pandey and his team have an edge in this project. Capt.Vikas Pandey is a seasoned entrepreneur and maritime expert with 20+ years of cross-industry experience in Maritime, Telecom, Fintech, Healthcare, and EdTech. As the founder of ShipFinex, he’s revolutionizing maritime asset investment through blockchain, tokenization, and DeFi. 
Shipfinex is at the forefront of this blockchain revolution, providing the secure and transparent tokenisation-based ship ownership platform, enabling access to the digital maritime finance ecosystem. They are designed to directly address the historical pain points of the maritime industry.Through Shipfinex, investors gain unprecedented access to maritime investment opportunities. The platform leverages blockchain in shipping to create a transparent, immutable record of ownership and transactions for tokenized shipping assets. This eliminates the opacity of traditional deals, building trust by design. Furthermore, by enabling fractional ownership of ships, they are trying to drastically reduce the capital required, opening up this lucrative asset class to investors who previously thought it was out of reach. They aim to become the leading platform in democratizing maritime investment.The future of maritime investment is intrinsically linked to the growth of Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenization. This trend reflects a broader shift in global finance towards greater efficiency, transparency, and accessibility, and the maritime sector is at the forefront of this evolution.The $three trillion maritime industry, once a highly exclusive domain, is now opening its gates thanks to the power of real world asset tokenization. This guide has illuminated how maritime asset tokenization fundamentally transforms shipping investments, addressing long-standing pain points like inaccessibility, illiquidity, and opacity. By enabling fractional ownership of ships and leveraging blockchain for unparalleled transparency and security, Shipfinex is making maritime asset ownership a tangible reality for a global audience.Your ownership is permanently etched into blockchain technology. Every transaction is recorded immutably on a secure blockchain, which means ownership records cannot be altered, deleted, or disputed. This complete transparency means you can verify your holdings anytime, anywhere. Smart contracts automatically distribute earnings from ship operations, with revenue flowing directly from charter payments to token holders. There are no middlemen, no delays, no human error just transparent, automated distributions. Smart contracts automatically distribute earnings from ship operations, with revenue flowing directly from charter payments to token holders. They use ERC-3643 token standard, the gold standard for compliant security tokens. This ensures regulatory compliance at the protocol level, with built-in transfer restrictions that protect both investors and the platform while maintaining the highest security standards.For the first time in history, you can own fractional shares in commercial vessels worth millions, earn real revenue from global trade operations, maintain complete control over your investment, and trust in a system built with institutional-grade security.You own legal shares in actual ships generating real revenue, with rights protected by multiple legal frameworks. Your assets can't be diluted or devalued by platform decisions because your ownership is backed by physical, operational vessels.I strongly believe all seafarers should also study and consider this project as they too have the knowledge about shipping and can also be a good investment opportunity considering the fact that 90 % world trade is still by sea. I wish Capt Vikas Pandey and his team all the best and hope the venture becomes a success.To set up your account and join this revolution you can follow the link below Your Gateway to Ship Ownership | ShipfinexHow do I create a Shipfinex account? : Shipfinex Help Centre

USE OF BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN SHIPPING

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  What Is a Blockchain?

Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the shipping industry by enhancing transparency, security, and efficiency in logistics and supply chain management.
The identification and origin of the product/process is clearly traceable (“proof of existence”), which makes the risk of counterfeiting or manipulation a lot lower than with conventional processes. Thus, especially when it comes to dangerous goods transport and dealing with incorrectly declared cargo, blockchain can guarantee much higher levels of both safety and certainty. 
Blockchain can not only be used to trace the cargo but also the fuel that is being used. By this misleading information about origin and composition of bunker fuels can be minimized. Projects like' Bunker Trace'  are already working on a blockchain based solution to track and trace fuels and lead the shipping industry onto a greener route.
Blockchain technology is transforming the logistics industry by enhancing traceability, improving freight processes, and reducing fraud. Logistic companies use blockchain to create transparent, immutable records of supply chain activities, ensuring each step is verifiable and secure.
Real-World Applications of Blockchain in Shipping

Blockchain is a decentralized digital database or ledger that securely stores records across a network of computers in a way that is transparent, immutable, and resistant to tampering. Each "block" contains data, and the blocks are linked in a chronological "chain."

A blockchain is a distributed database or ledger shared across a computer network's nodes. While it is best known for its crucial role in cryptocurrency systems, maintaining a secure and decentralized record of transactions, blockchains are not limited to cryptocurrency uses. Blockchains can be used to make data in any industry immutable, meaning it cannot be altered. Since a block can’t be changed, the only trust needed is at the point where a user or program enters data. This reduces the need for trusted third parties, such as auditors or other humans, who add costs and can make mistakes. Since Bitcoin's introduction in 2009, blockchain use has exploded due to the creation of various cryptocurrencies, decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and smart contracts. Bitcoin and other popular cryptocurrencies, such as Ethereum and Solana, can be purchased through leading crypto exchanges. Data such as bills of lading and shipping documents are still available in paper form. These documents pass through many hands, and they must be continually updated and checked to ensure they are in the right place at the right time. In addition to being particularly prone to errors, these processes also cost a huge amount of time and money.  In contrast, using blockchain in shipping allows information such as that in a bill of lading to be stored in an uncomplicated, secure and transparent fashion. All authorized persons can view the data relevant to them at any time. In addition, having the data be assigned to a specific author in a clear and unalterable way (“proof of ownership”) makes manipulation more difficult. This means a boost in terms of reliability, a considerably shortened processing time and more security. By using a blockchain database, companies can track items throughout the entire supply chain, improving food safety in food supply chains. Shipping companies utilize blockchain solutions to reduce customs clearance times and decrease delivery times. Smart contracts automate financial transactions, streamlining the payment process.Several initiatives and pilot projects are already demonstrating the potential of blockchain in the shipping industry: Below are few examples which are being pursued and easily found on the internet.

TradeLens: A blockchain-based platform developed by Maersk and IBM, TradeLens aims to digitize global trade by providing a secure and transparent platform for all supply chain stakeholders. The platform has gained significant traction, with major carriers, port operators, and customs authorities joining the network.

CargoX: CargoX is an independent blockchain platform that focuses on providing blockchain-based document transfer solutions, particularly for bills of lading. The platform offers a secure, efficient, and cost-effective way to manage shipping documents, reducing the reliance on physical paperwork.

Everledger: Originally developed to track the provenance of diamonds, Everledger is now applying its blockchain technology to the shipping industry. By creating a digital record of a product’s journey, Everledger helps ensure authenticity and compliance, particularly for high-value goods.

Marine Transport International (MTI): MTI has developed a blockchain-based platform that aims to improve transparency and efficiency in container logistics. By providing real-time visibility into container movements and automating key processes, MTI's platform helps reduce costs and improve service levels                           

  Efficient cargo tracking is a cornerstone of global trade, but traditional systems often rely on siloed databases and manual processes, leading to errors, delays, and miscommunication. Blockchain offers a unified, tamper-proof solution by creating a shared ledger accessible to all stakeholders in the supply chain.

More and more projects are coming up will be coming up with an article on the latest "Shipfinex" project

                                 

SIRE 2.0 USE OF TABLET BASED INSPECTION / DETAILS OF TABLET

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• Provide tools that will strengthen governance processes and allow more in-depth inspection

reports.

• Provide the inspector with ready access to industry guidance and vessel operator supplied

information.

• Support dynamic question allocation allowing a detailed review of equipment, procedures

and human based aspects of each allocated question, resulting in more focused inspection

report content.

• Enable richer data collection to further improve oversight of vessel safety systems and

processes.

• Allow greater transparency for all parties by using GPS tracking, recording the date and time

of each response provided and recording the

addition and removal of negative observations.

• Allow the inclusion of photographic evidence, where permitted by a port or terminal, to

support observations.

• Verify photographs provided by a vessel's operator showing the vessel’s physical and e vessel’s

cosmetic condition.

The tablet device is:

• Capable of using only the pre-loaded SIRE 2.0software.

• Locked down using Mobile Device Management software to prevent the use of unauthorized

programs, applications, tools or data transfer connections.

• Fitted with cameras which can only be accessed through the SIRE 2.0 software, but which can be

fully and demonstrably isolated if photography is prohibited onboard a vessel, at a terminal or in a

port.

• Zone 1/Div 1 certified when using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but the tablet can be placed in flight

safe mode if required by terminal regulations.

THE CHOSEN MOBILE IS AS PER BELOW SPEC:

• Manufacturer: i.safe MOBILE

• Model: IS930.1

• ATEX Approval: EX-Zone 1/21, II 2G Ex ib IIC T4 Gb, II

2D Ex ib IIIC T135°C Db P6X

• IECEx Approval: EX-Zone 1/21, Ex ib IIC T4 Gb, Ex ib

IIIC T135°C Db IP6X

• NEC500 Approval: Class I, II, III Division 1, Groups A B C

D E F G T4

• EAC approval: 1Ex ib IIC T4 Gb X Ex, ib IIIC T135°C

Db X IP64

Supporting documentation carried by inspectors will include:

• Tablet certification – To provide details of the Ex rating to which a tablet had been designed

and manufactured (also clearly marked on the tablet itself).

•

Ports and Terminals letter – To provide details of the specific tablet device issued to

an inspector along with a request for the terminal and/or port representatives to inform

the inspector of any restrictions on the use of the tablet camera.

•

Master letter – To provide details of the specific tablet device issued to an inspector

along with a request for the Master to inform the inspector of any restrictions on the use of

the tablet camera during the inspection.

•

Rules for the use of the Tablet Camera and Voice Recorder – Provides details of how the

tablet camera and voice recorder should be used during an inspection, including the

compliance with any port or terminal restrictions.

M

Govt Eases Rules For issuing CDC for Seafarers

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But ‘simplification of rules does not mean the holder is entitled to a job’

Mumbai, January 21

The government has eased rules for issuing a so-called Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC)-cum-Seafarers’ Identity Document, removing the hurdles for those intending to work on ships but faced hurdles in obtaining the certificate.
Without a CDC, a person is not eligible to work on ships. If an Indian national of 18 years, holding an Indian passport and a Class 10 pass certificate, completes the five basic STCW safety courses spread over two weeks, he is entitled to apply for a CDC.
The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, sets qualification standards for masters, officers and general-purpose ratings on seagoing merchant ships.
The new rules on issuing CDC took effect on January 14.
Job scene The move will benefit thousands of Indians looking to work on board cruise liners as bartenders, house-keeping staff and laundrymen, and also in other ships in various capacities.
“Why should anyone come in their way of getting a job. They found it very difficult to get an Indian CDC because of the rigid rules and regulations. Hence, they took CDC from foreign entities. In this process, they were fleeced by agents and sub-agents. Besides, Indian nationals holding Indian passports but having a foreign CDC were looked upon with suspicion by immigration authorities. All that will stop now. There is no need for anybody to go outside, just have these five basic safety courses and become eligible to apply for an Indian CDC,” says Capt MC Yadav, Director (maritime education and training), FOSMA Maritime Institute and Research Organisation.
The five basic courses include personal survival techniques or proficiency in survival craft and rescue boards; fire prevention and fire-fighting or advance fire-fighting; elementary first aid or medical first aid or medical care; personal safety and social responsibility and security training for seafarers with designated security duties or ship security officer.
“It’s a feel-good factor,” said Abdulgani Serang, general secretary-cum-treasurer of the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI).
Maritime industry executives, though, say that the simplification of rules on issuing CDC does not mean that its holder is entitled to a job.
“Obtaining a CDC is not a right to a job just as having a passport is not a right to travel,” said an executive with a Mumbai-based maritime training institute.
“The sooner it is realised by the public, the better it is,” he said, asking not to be named.
“A person should do whatever is needed for getting a job,” he added.