Maritime Viscosity Measurement & Control
Mar-In Controls B.V. develops and supplies advanced viscosity measurement systems designed for maritime applications. Onboard fuel management requires absolute precision: viscosity directly affects engine performance, fuel consumption, and compliance with international emission standards. With the Viscotrol system, ship operators can achieve consistent control, even when using low-grade or variable quality heavy fuel oils.
Reliable viscosity control for ships
Operating a vessel presents unique technical challenges. Engines run on different fuel qualities depending on location, availability, and cost. If viscosity is not properly managed, combustion efficiency decreases, maintenance costs rise, and compliance risks increase.
The Viscotrol is designed to eliminate these risks. It continuously measures and regulates fuel viscosity before combustion, ensuring engines receive fuel with the optimal characteristics. This results in stable combustion, reduced wear, and more efficient operation over long voyages.
Key features of the Viscotrol
- Fast response time through backflow design, preventing and supporting real time measurement.
- High precision and reliability throughout the vessel’s operational lifetime.
- Teflon-coated capillary tube prevents sediment buildup, even with lower quality heavy fuel oil.
- Easy installation and maintenance thanks to a split-body capillary design that simplifies servicing.
- Electronic and pneumatic versions available, offering flexibility for different onboard systems.
- Compact design suitable for integration in existing engine room setups.
Benefits for maritime operations
Managing fuel viscosity correctly offers shipowners and operators multiple operational advantages. From reducing fuel costs to meeting international regulations and protecting engines from unnecessary wear, the Viscotrol system provides a complete solution for modern fleets.
Fuel optimization
Fuel is one of the largest costs in shipping. By keeping viscosity at the right level, operators can burn fuel more efficiently. This leads to direct savings on fuel expenditure while reducing the vessel’s overall emissions footprint.
Compliance with IMO, SECA and EU regulations
The International Maritime Organization (IMO), the EU, and several countries require strict compliance with fuel and emission standards. The Viscotrol helps shipowners meet these requirements by delivering accurate and reliable viscosity data. It supports emission reduction initiatives and ensures fleets remain compliant without compromising performance.
Engine protection and reliability
Engines operating on poor-quality fuels face higher risks of wear and breakdown. By stabilizing viscosity, the Viscotrol contributes to smoother operation, less downtime, and reduced maintenance costs. For shipowners, this means fewer unexpected repairs and longer engine life.
Global maritime applications
The Viscotrol is trusted on a wide variety of vessels, including:
- Tankers transporting heavy loads worldwide.
- Cargo vessels operating on long-haul international routes.
- Passenger and cruise ships where safety, comfort, and efficiency are paramount.
- Dredgers used for removing sediments from waterways
Its proven track record across the global fleet makes it a reliable solution for operators seeking performance, compliance, and cost savings.
