Abstract:
Coal cargo transported by bulk carrier vessels is susceptible to self-heating due to the
oxidation process. This condition can lead to rising temperatures, the formation of
hazardous gases, and even fires inside cargo holds if not detected at an early stage.
During sea practice aboard MV. Noah Gracia, the monitoring of cargo temperature
and air conditions inside the holds was still carried out manually through direct
inspections by the crew. This method has several limitations, including delays in
identifying changes in cargo conditions and an increased risk of crew exposure to
hazardous gases. This study employed a qualitative descriptive method, with data
collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and literature review. The
research focused on analyzing the weaknesses of the manual ventilation system and
examining the importance of implementing an automatic ventilation system
supported by temperature and gas sensors. The findings indicate that the manual
system is unable to provide continuous and real-time monitoring of cargo hold
conditions, thereby increasing the risk of self-heating. Furthermore, direct
inspections inside the cargo hold may endanger crew members due to potential
exposure to toxic gases. Therefore, the implementation of an automatic ventilation
system based on temperature and gas sensors can serve as a more effective solution
by continuously monitoring hold conditions, providing early warnings when
abnormal temperature increases or hazardous gas concentrations are detected,
reducing human error, and enhancing both cargo safety and crew safety during
voyages. Consequently, the application of this technology can help prevent self-
heating incidents in coal cargo carried aboard MV. Noah Gracia.
