Aims
To provide participants with a clear, practical, and in-depth understanding of Marflex electric-driven deepwell cargo pumps, focusing on design philosophy, operation, control systems, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safe cargo handling practices on chemical and product tankers.
Objectives
On completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the design concept and operating principle of Marflex electric deepwell pumps
- Explain why electric-drive deepwell pumps are preferred over hydraulic systems
- Identify and describe all major components: deck arrangement, pipe stack, and pump head
- Operate Marflex deepwell pumps safely under varying cargo conditions
- Apply correct speed control methods based on cargo properties
- Understand oil-lubricated shaft systems and their advantages over cargo-lubricated designs
- Monitor seal integrity, cofferdam condition, and leakage detection
- Carry out correct stripping procedures in compliance with IMO requirements
- Recognise common faults, alarms, and abnormal operating conditions
- Perform routine checks and first-line maintenance safely and effectively
- Improve cargo discharge efficiency while minimizing wear, cavitation, and residual cargo
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Marflex Deepwell Pumps
- Overview of deepwell cargo pumping systems
- Evolution from cargo-lubricated to oil-lubricated shaft designs
- Comparison of Marflex (electric drive) and hydraulic deepwell pumps
- Typical applications on chemical and product tankers
Module 2: Electric Drive Philosophy and Advantages
- Electric motor-driven deepwell pump concept
- Explosion-proof and class-approved motor requirements
- Comparison: electric drive vs hydraulic drive
- System efficiency, noise levels, cleanliness, and maintenance benefits
- Long-term operational and lifecycle advantages
Module 3: Construction and Pump Design Overview
- Vertical single-stage centrifugal pump principle
- Influence of capacity, head, specific gravity, and viscosity on pump selection
- Single vs double design concept
- Importance of high-speed capability in single-stage pumps
Module 4: Main Sections of Marflex Deepwell Pump
- Overview of the four main sections:
- Electric motor (on deck)
- Deck arrangement
- Pipe stack
- Pump head
- Functional relationship between sections
Module 5: Deck Arrangement
- Motor installation and alignment
- Top cover and deck trunk arrangement
- Coupling between motor shaft and intermediate shaft
- Safety, accessibility, and maintenance considerations on deck
Module 6: Speed Control Methods
- One-speed electric motors and their applications
- Electric shaft principle for inland barges
- Variable speed control using frequency converters (VFDs)
VFD Advantages
- Energy efficiency and load matching
- Soft start and reduced generator stress
- Independent pump control
- Reduced cavitation and mechanical wear
- Integration with cargo monitoring and automation systems
- Programmable control based on:
- Cargo viscosity
- Specific gravity
- Liquid level
- Discharge optimization
Module 7: Pipe Stack Design and Intermediate Shaft System
- Dual-pipe concept:
- Discharge pipe
- Shaft enclosure pipe
- Oil-lubricated intermediate shaft arrangement
- Material selection and advantages (42CrMo4V steel)
- Bearing design: composite bearings with FPM flexible members
- Shaft support arrangement at 6-metre intervals
- Axial load distribution and spline connection advantages
- Long service life and reduced alignment issues
Module 8: Pump Head Construction
- Pump head layout and components
- Disconnection and maintenance philosophy
- Spline connection between intermediate shaft and pump shaft
- Pump shaft material (32CrNiMo6V) and its advantages
- Impeller function and hydraulic performance
Module 9: Seal Arrangement and Cofferdam System
- Purpose of seal systems in deepwell pumps
- Oil side seal and cargo side seal arrangement
- Double cargo seals and atmospheric drainage chamber (cofferdam)
- Cofferdam purging lines and monitoring
- Leakage detection and seal condition monitoring
- Crew-level seal replacement and maintenance benefits
Module 10: Lubrication System
- Oil-lubricated shaft principle
- Comparison with cargo-lubricated shaft systems
- Lubrication monitoring and oil condition checks
- Overheating prevention and explosion safety
- Expected service life and reliability
Module 11: Operational Procedures
- Pre-start checks
- Starting and stopping procedures
- Pump operation at different cargo properties
- Monitoring pressure, temperature, vibration, and current
- Avoiding dry running and cavitation
Module 12: Stripping Procedures and Residual Cargo Minimisation
- Purpose of stripping operations
- Stripping valve and main cargo valve operation
- Use of inert gas or air under pressure
- Role of impeller as a dynamic foot valve
- Pump running during stripping
- Compliance with IMO requirements
- Environmental and cargo loss considerations
Module 13: Safety Considerations
- Explosion protection philosophy
- Static electricity and cargo compatibility
- Safe purging practices
- Emergency shutdown considerations
- Permit-to-work relevance during maintenance
Module 14: Routine Inspection and Maintenance
- Daily, voyage, and cargo-operation checks
- Monitoring bearings, seals, and lubrication
- Common wear areas
- Record keeping and planned maintenance systems
Module 15: Troubleshooting and Common Faults
- Abnormal vibration and noise
- Reduced discharge rate
- High motor load
- Seal leakage indications
- Cavitation symptoms and corrective actions
Module 16: Best Practices and Operational Efficiency
- Optimising discharge time
- Reducing energy consumption
- Extending pump and seal life
- Crew coordination during cargo operations
- Lessons learned from service experience
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
Aims
- To give participants a clear understanding of how the Headway OceanGuard BWTS works.
- To build confidence in operating, monitoring and maintaining the system safely.
- To ensure the crew can meet ballast water discharge compliance and handle inspections effectively.
Objectives
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the main components of the Headway OceanGuard BWTS.
2. Explain the working principles of filtration, UV treatment and electrolysis/AOP.
3. Carry out safe ballasting and de-ballasting using automatic and manual modes.
4. Monitor key parameters such as TRO, UV intensity, ΔP and flow rate.
5. Troubleshoot common operational and sensor issues.
6. Perform routine and scheduled maintenance safely.
7. Follow safety procedures for chemicals, LOTO and confined-area work.
8. Maintain proper ballast water logs and prepare for PSC inspections.
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction
Module 2: System Components
Module 3: Working Principle
Module4: Operation
Module 5: System Monitoring
Module 6: Troubleshooting
Module 7: Maintenance
Module 8: Safety And Compliance
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
Aims
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
1. Understand the basic working principles of marine machinery and mechanical systems.
2. Identify, use, and maintain hand tools and measuring instruments safely and correctly.
3. Perform basic preventive and routine maintenance tasks under supervision.
4. Recognize and report machinery defects or abnormalities.
5. Follow safe working procedures and maintenance documentation practices.
6. Apply correct lubrication, tightening, alignment, and cleaning techniques.
7. Develop confidence in assisting with machinery overhauls and minor repairs.
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Marine Machinery Systems
Module 2: Tools, Equipment, and Measuring Instruments
Module 3: Fastenings, Fittings, and Maintenance Techniques
Module 4: Lubrication and Cleaning Systems
Module 5: Pumps, Valves, and Basic Maintenance
Module 6: Maintenance Documentation and Record Keeping
Module 7: Workshop Practice (Hands-On)
Module 8: Safety, PPE, and Environmental Considerations
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
Aims:
To provide marine engineers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively operate, maintain, and troubleshoot ME engines, ensuring safe and efficient ship propulsion while adhering to environmental regulations and industry best practices.
Objectives:
1. Understand the design and operational principles of ME engines.
2. Gain proficiency in electronic engine management systems and controls.
3. Learn to monitor and optimize fuel injection, exhaust valve operation, and lubrication systems.
4. Develop the ability to identify and resolve engine performance issues and malfunctions.
5. Familiarize with environmental compliance measures, including NOx reduction techniques like EGR systems.
6. Enhance understanding of hydraulic, fuel, and lubrication systems specific to ME engines.
7. Equip participants with skills to perform routine maintenance and ensure reliable engine operation under various load conditions.
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
Upon completing the E-O.R.B. Management course, participants will be able to:.
Aims:
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Understand the significance of accurate oil record-keeping for vessel operations and environmental compliance.
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Familiarize themselves with electronic Oil Record Book (e-ORB) systems and software.
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Learn the procedures for data entry, maintenance, and retrieval of e-ORB records.
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Recognize the importance of compliance with international regulations and industry standards.
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Develop the skills to navigate, input, and manage electronic oil record book data efficiently.
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Demonstrate the ability to maintain electronic oil record books to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Course Content:
Module 1:Introduction to e.-O.R.B.
Module 2:E-O.R.B. Systems and Software.
Module 3:Data Entry and Record Maintenance.
Module 4:Compliance with International Regulations.
Module 5:Environmental Stewardship and Reporting.
Module 6:System Setup and User Training.
Module 7:Data Entry Best Practices.
Module 8:Audit Trails and Documentation.
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
AIMS:
This course follows IMO Model Course 2.07 and industry best practices for engine room operations. It offers advanced simulator-based training to strengthen decision-making, watchkeeping, troubleshooting, and emergency response skills. The course also meets SIRE 2.0Part 1 – Section 3.3.4 requirements for engineering competence. Participants are assessed to ensure they meet performance and safety standards using the ARI-DNV Class Approved Ship Machinery Engine Room Simulator for ME electronically controlled propulsion engines.
- Safety of operations, Environmental issues
- Co - operation and teamwork, Situational awareness management
- Human factors and human error
- Crisis management and human behaviour
- Identification of an breaking error chains
- Planning and prioritizing
- Identification of cause of problem and timely correct response
- Methodical and logical approach to fault diagnosis and problem solving
- Emergency preparedness, Contingency planning
- Behavioural Competency Assessment, SIRE 2.0familiarization
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
AIMS:
This course provides comprehensive training using advanced engine room simulators to develop essential operational and troubleshooting skills for engineering personnel onboard ships. It focuses on watch keeping routines, machinery operations, emergency procedures, and safe engine room practices. The training aligns with industry best practices and familiarization with SIRE 2.0 Part 1 – Section 3.3.4 requirements for operational proficiency in the engine department also this course is developed as IMO Model course 2.07.
Participants are assessed to ensure they meet performance and safety standards using the ARI-DNV Class Approved Ship Machinery Engine Room Simulator for ME electronically controlled propulsion engines.
- This course meets as per IMO 2.07
- Familiarization with Engine Simulator and associated Automation.
- Familiarization with Engine Room systems and sub systems.
- Be familiar with the use of instruments and parameters used in Engine Room of modern merchant ships.
- Develop greater awareness of proper pre-planning and the use of checklist of the time scales involved start up procedures.
- Develop a greater understanding and awareness of correct watchkeeping procedures.
- Have an understanding of interdependence of various machinery.
- Obtain experience in identifying operational problems and troubleshooting them.
- Improve on their decision-making abilities with respect to safety and efficient plant operation.
- Make a safer and more effective contribution to the operation ofvessel's machinery installation.
- Be able to analyze the changes in various parameters and effectively take necessary action to restore normalcy.
- Behavioural Competency Assessment
- SIRE 2.0 familiarization
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
Engine Room Resource Management (ERM) developed for marine engineers, electro-technical officers, technical superintendents, and shipboard personnel. It focuses on the efficient operation and supervision of propulsion and auxiliary systems in a team based environment.
Emphasis is placed on resource management, leadership, and teamwork, essential for safe and effective engine room operations. The course aligns with IMO Model Course 2.07 and complies with SIRE 2.0 Part 1 – Section 3.3.4.
- Human factor theory and human limitations
- Monitor the operation of electrical electronic and control systems
- Operate generator and distribution system
- Manage Trouble shooting restoration of electrical and electronic equipment to operating condition
- Efficient use of resources and delegation
- Communications
- Planning and prioritizing
- Identification of cause of problem and timely correct response
- Behavioural Competency Assessment
- SIRE 2.0 familiarization
Aims:
- To develop in-depth technical knowledge and operational competence in RT-Flex electronically controlled marine engines.
- To bridge the gap between traditional engine systems and modern common rail technology for marine propulsion.
- To enhance the ability of marine engineers to ensure safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance using RT-Flex systems.
Objectives:
- Understand RT-Flex engine technology's principles, design features, and applications.
- Identify and explain key components, including the common rail fuel injection system, exhaust valves, lubrication, and cooling systems.
- Operate the RT-Flex engine effectively, including starting, stopping, manoeuvring, and performance optimisation.
- Interpret and troubleshoot electronic control systems, including the ECU, safety systems, and diagnostics.
- Conduct routine maintenance, fault detection, and component repair using correct procedures.
- Apply emission reduction strategies and ensure compliance with IMO regulations, particularly MARPOL Annexe VI.
- Respond appropriately to emergency situations involving RT-Flex engines and apply safety protocols during failures.
- Teacher: AIMS MARITIME
