Analisis Kegagalan Fungsi Kerja Bowl Disc System terhadap Tindakan Flushing Purifier pada Proses Pembersihan Bahan Bakar MFO di Kapal MV. Hammada

Abstract

The quality of Marine Fuel Oil (MFO) free from water and impurities is one of the primary factors in maintaining combustion efficiency and the reliability of the main engine's performance on board ships. One of the equipment playing an important role in maintaining this quality is the purifier, particularly through the flushing process utilizing the bowl disc component. However, functional failure of the bowl disc frequently causes a decline in the effectiveness of the flushing process, thereby risking a reduction in fuel quality and disrupting engine performance. This problem is commonly encountered on merchant vessels, including MV. Hammada, where suboptimal purifier maintenance directly affects the smoothness of ship operations. Based on this background, this study aims to analyze the functional failure of the Bowl Disc System on the effectiveness of the flushing purifier action in the MFO fuel cleaning process on board MV. Hammada. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method through direct observation, technical measurements (dial shaft and RPM), and interviews with the Engine Room Chief and Fourth Engineer. The results indicate that stable RPM (7,300–7,425 rpm) and appropriate sealing water pressure significantly influence the success of the separation process. It was also found that variations in purifier operating temperature (76–92°C) affect the resulting fuel quality, with the ideal temperature range being 85–95°C. Factors causing bowl disc functional failure include insufficient routine maintenance, poor fuel quality, and blockage in the sealing water line. Based on these findings, this study recommends increasing the frequency of visual inspections, conducting periodic shaft alignment measurements, and consistently controlling purifier operating parameters to keep the MFO separation process optimal and support the overall reliability of shipboard engine operations.