PENGARUH PENGGUNAAN DETERGEN TERHADAP PENCEGAHAN KRISTALISASI GARAM PADA FRESH WATER GENERATOR DI MV. PAN QUANTUM SAAT TIDAK BEROPERASI

Abstract

The Fresh Water Generator (FWG) plays a critical role onboard by producing potable water from seawater through a thermal distillation process. However, issues often arise when the Fresh Water Generator (FWG) is not in use, particularly the formation of salt crystallization on the evaporator surface. This build-up can lead to a significant drop in freshwater production efficiency when the Fresh Water Generator (FWG) is reactivated, increasing the frequency of emergency maintenance and potentially disrupting vessel operations. This study aims to explore a preventive maintenance approach through the application of detergent immersion treatment on the FWG’s evaporator during idle periods. A qualitative descriptive method was used to understand the real conditions and treatment effectiveness. Data were gathered through direct field observations, analysis of technical documents such as logbooks and maintenance records, and interviews with key engine crew members—specifically the third engineer and oiler C—onboard the MV. Pan Quantum. The findings reveal that regular immersion using detergent significantly reduces the formation of salt scale. The evaporator surfaces become easier to clean, the cleaning duration is shortened, and the production of freshwater improves consistently after treatment. Interview responses support this observation, indicating that this method not only improves efficiency but also reduces the workload and risk of system failure. It is concluded that detergent treatment during Fresh Water Generator (FWG) downtime is effective in preventing crystallization and maintaining optimal operational performance. It is recommended that this procedure be standardized as part of regular Fresh Water Generator (FWG) maintenance practices to enhance long-term efficiency and reliability.