KR (Korean Register) has teamed up with Sinokor Merchant Marine and HD Hyundai Marine Solution (HD HMS) in a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionize ship maintenance using Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) technology, powered by artificial intelligence (AI). This collaboration marks a significant step forward in transforming how ships’ main engines and generators are monitored and maintained, contributing to enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and a more sustainable maritime industry.
The project, which is set to deploy advanced CBM systems on two Sinokor container ships—an 1,800 TEU vessel and an 8,000 TEU vessel—combines the unique expertise of each partner. Unlike traditional scheduled maintenance, which follows a fixed timeline regardless of actual equipment condition, CBM technology allows for real-time monitoring of critical ship components, such as engines and generators. Maintenance is only triggered when needed, based on data-driven insights, resulting in substantial reductions in operational costs and an increase in vessel reliability.
Condition-Based Maintenance – CBM Technology
The application of CBM technology represents a major leap towards digitalized and autonomous shipping. By continuously analyzing equipment performance, the technology enables more informed decision-making and ensures that maintenance is carried out in a timely and efficient manner. This reduces downtime, enhances the lifespan of key machinery, and contributes to overall operational efficiency. For Sinokor, a leader in container shipping, the integration of CBM technology on their vessels is an important step in embracing the future of smart shipping.
KR has been at the forefront of developing core technologies for fault diagnosis and prognosis since 2017. By incorporating AI, KR has been able to analyze critical ship machinery, including ship engines, generators, pumps, and switchboards, to improve fault detection and prevent costly breakdowns. The company has created fault flowcharts, analyzed big data from experimental failure scenarios, and developed sophisticated AI models to predict and address potential issues before they arise.
To facilitate the seamless integration of CBM systems, KR has adopted Machine Learning Operations (MLOps), a methodology that supports full-lifecycle technical services, ensuring that the systems are not only developed but also continuously optimized over time. This approach will enable real-time, on-board monitoring and analysis, allowing for more accurate diagnostics and more effective maintenance strategies.
As part of this collaboration, Sinokor will provide maintenance history data, while HD HMS will supply past operational data, which will be integral to the development of the technology. KR will leverage this data to build big data analytics, AI algorithms, and software solutions that can be directly applied to the vessels, ensuring that the CBM systems are tailored to the specific operational characteristics of the ships.
KIM Daeheon, Executive Vice President of KR’s R&D Division, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: “By applying CBM technology to ship engine rooms, this joint development project will serve as a significant foundation for transforming vessel maintenance and collecting big data to advance smart shipping technology. Moving forward, KR plans to expand CBM applications to various ship equipment, including low-flashpoint fuel supply systems and batteries, creating comprehensive lifecycle technical services that will drive the future of maritime operations.”
This project marks a pivotal moment in the maritime industry, as it represents a shift from traditional maintenance practices to more advanced, data-driven approaches that not only optimize operational efficiency but also lay the groundwork for smarter, more autonomous shipping operations. With the successful deployment of CBM technology on Sinokor’s vessels, the partners are setting a new standard in ship maintenance, paving the way for further advancements in the industry.
About Korean Register (KR)
Founded in 1960, the Korean Register (KR) is a leading classification society renowned for its technical service excellence. KR offers a wide range of services for ships and marine structures, including technical support, compliance verification, and R&D services. The organization is committed to enhancing the safety of life and property at sea while promoting environmental protection.
KR’s team of highly skilled professionals leverages their extensive experience in shipbuilding, shipping, and engineering to stay at the forefront of industry developments, continuously improving safety and compliance standards across the maritime sector.
Source Korean Register