A recent Coast Guard investigation involving a fire and subsequent loss of propulsion on board an inspected vessel serves as a reminder of safety issues caused by condensate forming in airlines. During the investigation, an underlying issue was discovered that caused condensate to form in airlines that supplied compressed air to the vessel’s air-operated engine throttle and clutch control systems. When the vessel is operating in cold weather, the condensate can freeze, potentially blocking the flow of compressed air or cause the pneumatic engine throttle and clutch controls to stick or freeze.
There are many systems vital to vessel and personnel safety that depend upon the reliable, uninterrupted flow of contaminant-free compressed air. Propulsion control equipment (pneumatic engine starters, throttle controls, governors, air-operated clutch systems, etc.), and pneumatically operated air-blowers used in gas-freeing operations are just a few examples of such equipment.
Importance of Pressure Dew Point vs Ambient Operating Temperature