Abstract:
This research provides an in-depth examination of the critical impact of Seawater Pump
failure on the efficiency of Palm Oil cargo tank cleaning for the fulfillment of cargo quality
standards on the MT. DS ROSA, a Chemical/Oil Tanker operating a cargo transition from
Palm Oil to Aniline Oil. The malfunction of the Seawater Pump, which serves as the primary
supplier of washing water pressure, significantly failed the pressure's effectiveness in
overcoming the high viscosity of Palm Oil residues that tend to solidify on tank walls.
Consequently, tank cleaning efficiency drops drastically, leading to repetitive cleaning
processes (re-cleaning) that not only extend operational duration (time loss) but also result
in Wall-Wash Test failures an absolute requirement for Aniline Oil cargo. This quality
failure directly triggers financial risks in the form of delay penalties (demurrage) and
increased operational costs.
The research method employed is descriptive qualitative with a focus on Case Cause
Analysis through a comprehensive Case Study. Data were collected through direct
interviews on board, ship operational documentation (Logbooks and Maintenance
Records), as well as an in-depth analysis of pump failure records and historical Wall-Wash
Test reports. This case study analysis identifies the causal factors of failure and the complex
relationships responsible for cleaning inefficiency and cargo quality failure.
The results of this study structurally demonstrate that Seawater Pump failure has a significant
impact on the decline of tank cleaning efficiency, affecting not only the ship’s operational
readiness but also financial stability due to demurrage risks. To address this issue and
maintain operational sustainability, this study recommends solutions focused on optimizing
Seawater Pump performance through adjustments to Preventive Maintenance procedures
based on troubleshooting findings. This research also highlights the importance of awareness
regarding the interdependence between technical system reliability (pumps) and the
fulfillment of the highest cargo quality standards.
