Oil Mist Detector System: Essential Protection for Engine Room Safety

In the engine room, even the smallest oil mist can pose a severe fire and explosion risk. Oil mist particles suspended in the air—typically from high-pressure leaks, overheating components, or crankcase failures—are among the leading causes of catastrophic engine room fires. At Serden Ship Supply Marine Electric & Electronics Ltd., we offer Oil Mist Detector (OMD) Systems that provide real-time, highly sensitive detection of oil mist in engine spaces.

Our systems help prevent major engine damage and ensure compliance with SOLAS, IMO, and classification society requirements, keeping your crew and vessel safe.

 What Is an Oil Mist Detector System?

An Oil Mist Detector continuously monitors the presence of fine oil droplets (mist) in the air, particularly around engines, turbochargers, crankcases, and other high-risk machinery. Once a concentration threshold is exceeded, the system triggers:

• Audio-visual alarms

• Engine slowdown or shutdown signals

• Alerts to the bridge and engine control room

• Integration with fire suppression and monitoring systems

By detecting dangerous mist levels early, OMD systems can prevent ignition or explosion scenarios before they develop.

 Why Are Oil Mist Detectors Critical?

• Engine crankcase explosions are often caused by undetected oil mist.

• Oil mist forms from leaking gaskets, broken pipes, or failed lubrication systems.

• Heat and confined engine rooms create ideal conditions for ignition.

• SOLAS and class regulations mandate OMDs for engines above a certain size or risk level.

In short, the OMD system is your first line of defense against invisible threats.

 Components of Our OMD Systems

Serden provides high-quality, marine-approved components including:

• Oil Mist Sensors (optical or photoelectric)

• Central OMD Control Unit

• Alarm and warning indicators

• Sampling fans and ducts (for crankcase systems)

• Interface with Engine Safety System (ESS)

• Redundant circuits for critical monitoring

• Self-test and calibration routines

Our systems are suitable for both open-air engine rooms and enclosed crankcases.

 Installation and Configuration

We offer turnkey installation and commissioning, including:

• Sensor placement at critical locations: turbochargers, exhaust manifolds, generators, etc.

• Custom wiring and duct routing

• Control panel setup with display, alerts, and data logging

• Interface with ship’s automation system (AMS or VMS)

• Bridge panel integration (with audible and visual alarms)

• Testing under normal and simulated mist conditions

• System documentation and crew training

 Advanced Features (Optional)

• Digital OMD sensors with Modbus/TCP output

• Remote diagnostics and trend monitoring

• Multiple mist concentration threshold levels

• Integration with engine shutdown logic

• Alarm logging and memory backup

• Self-cleaning sensors or replaceable filters

 Where Are OMD Systems Installed?

We design systems for various critical zones:

• Crankcases of large 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines

• Engine rooms (above turbochargers, injection pumps)

• Generator sets

• Auxiliary machinery spaces

• Shaft bearings or gearboxes

• Bilge ventilation ducts

 Compliance & Certification

Our Oil Mist Detection Systems meet and exceed international standards:

• SOLAS Chapter II-1, Regulation 47

• IMO MSC.1/Circ.1321

• Class Rules from DNV, ABS, BV, LR, RINA, ClassNK

• IEC 60079 (for hazardous area equipment)

•  Crankcase OMDs conform to API RP 14C

We also provide:

• Type approval certificates

• Test reports and calibration data

• Maintenance manuals and wiring diagrams

• Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and Site Acceptance Test (SAT) documentation

 Applications

Our OMD systems are ideal for:

• Cargo ships and tankers

• Ro-Ro vessels

• Cruise ships

• Ferries

• Tugboats and OSVs

• Naval ships and submarines

• Power generation barges

 Maintenance & After-Sales Services

We support our clients globally with:

• Annual inspection and calibration

• Replacement of sensors and filters

• 24/7 emergency support for system faults

• System upgrades or integration with new engines

• Remote technical assistance and spare part supply

 Why Serden?

•  30+ years of marine electrical and fire safety experience

•  SOLAS & class-compliant solutions

•  Custom-engineered layouts for every vessel type

•  Worldwide installation, commissioning & support

•  Fast spare part logistics

•  Certified components from trusted global manufacturers

A minor oil mist leak can turn into a major disaster—don’t let it go undetected. With Serden’s Oil Mist Detector Systems, your engine room stays safe, smart, and fully protected.

 Ensure Engine Room Safety with Serden OMD Solutions

Looking to install or upgrade your vessel's oil mist detection system? Contact us today to schedule an expert consultation and receive a tailored, class-approved solution.