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Case Study

CAT C18 Engine Tripping Issue Resolved Remotely During Lockdown for Supply Vessel

Table of Contents

Background

Industry
Marine
Solution
Remote Maintenance
Services for
Auxiliary Engine
Make & Model
Caterpillar
C18 Engine
Asset
Supply Vessel

Objective

To provide immediate troubleshooting and restore functionality to a Caterpillar C18 auxiliary engine during the COVID-19 lockdown, avoiding potential vessel off-hire and financial loss.

Challenge / Problem Context

  • The auxiliary engine was frequently tripping, which could not be resolved by the vessel’s onboard engineering team.
  • Though auxiliary, this engine powered the Bow Thruster—critical for vessel operations. A malfunction would have rendered the vessel non-operational and subject to off-hire, resulting in potential revenue loss.
  • Due to COVID-19 lockdown protocols, Neptunus’ technical team could not be physically deployed to the vessel to resolve the issue.

What Did We Do?

  • Remote Diagnostic Support:
    Neptunus’ service team engaged in remote diagnostics by consulting the vessel engineers and evaluating the engine’s symptoms.
  • Provided a Troubleshooting Checklist:
    A targeted checklist was shared to isolate the root cause. The team remotely guided checks on:
    a. Voltage readings after engine restart
    b. Exciter flashing
    c. Winding resistance and insulation
    d. Visual inspection of the rotating rectifier assembly
  • Root Cause Identification:
    Within 12 hours, the issue was identified as loose bolts in the rotating rectifier assembly. Vessel engineers tightened the bolts and resolved the issue under remote supervision.

Results That We Achieved

  • Operational Continuity Restored: The auxiliary engine resumed smooth operation, preventing disruption of Bow Thruster functionality.
  • Avoided Off-Hire Losses: Timely remote intervention saved the vessel from being off-hired, preventing an estimated revenue loss of ~$35,000.
  • Cost Savings in Logistics: By eliminating the need for on-site service deployment and dockside charges, an additional ~$2,000 in costs was saved.

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