CM Technologies Calls on Shipowners to Join Trials for Cylinder Liner Scuffing Detection

CM Technologies (CMT), a leader in advanced condition monitoring solutions, is urging shipowners and managers to participate in collaborative trials aimed at gathering crucial data on cylinder liner scuffing in two-stroke engines, one of the shipping industry’s most costly problems.

Scuffing, a severe form of sudden wear, can lead to significant engine damage and downtime. While it is a well-known issue that primarily affects large two-stroke diesel engines on bulkers, tankers, and large container ships, identifying the root causes has been a challenge. Operators, OEMs, and service providers have struggled to predict or prevent scuffing.

CMT, based in Germany, has developed a system that can detect early signs of cylinder damage. The company is seeking trial partners to validate the sensor’s predictive capabilities and prevent engine damage proactively.

Uwe Krüger, Managing Director at CM Technologies, emphasized the importance of understanding and preventing scuffing, stating, “Scuffing is a silent killer that can cause extensive damage suddenly. Our goal is to better comprehend the acoustic signature of scuffing to prevent failures before they occur.”

The recently developed Scuffing Sensor system by CMT, described as a “stethoscope for cylinder liners,” utilizes high-frequency acoustic emission (AE) technology to detect early signs of friction and wear from outside the cylinder. Unlike traditional methods that rely on visual inspection or oil analysis performed weeks apart, this system captures real-time acoustic data without interrupting engine operation, potentially providing an early warning signal before damage occurs.

Ship operators are invited to deploy the system on vessels equipped with two-stroke diesel engines for trials. The unobtrusive system, which requires no modifications to engine internals, is mounted externally using magnetic brackets and does not disrupt engine operation.

By participating in the trials, ship operators can gain early insights into scuffing risks on their engines while contributing to the development of a diagnostic tool for the industry.

Interested parties can contact CM Technologies at [email protected] to participate in the scuffing detection trials.

CMT believes that collaboration is essential to addressing persistent maintenance challenges in the shipping industry. Krüger stated, “Together, we can create something that protects engines, saves money, and sets a new benchmark for condition-based maintenance.”