ANALISIS TERJADINYA OVERFLOW PADA FUEL OIL PURIFIER DI MT HARVEST STAR

Abstract

The Fuel Oil Purifier is one of the essential auxiliary machines on board that functions to separate water and solid contaminants from fuel oil through centrifugal force to maintain fuel quality before it is supplied to the main engine. During sea practice aboard MT Harvest Star, an overflow problem occurred in the Fuel Oil Purifier, resulting in an ineffective fuel purification process. This study aims to analyze the causes of overflow, particularly those related to contaminated bowl discs and damaged main seal rings, and to determine appropriate maintenance and corrective actions to prevent similar failures. This research employed a descriptive qualitative method. Data were collected through direct observation, interviews, and documentation during the sea practice period aboard MT Harvest Star from August 2024 to July 2025. The collected data were analyzed using the Fishbone Diagram method to identify and classify the root causes of the overflow problem. The results indicate that the accumulation of sludge, carbon deposits, and other contaminants on the bowl discs obstructs the fuel separation process, reducing purifier efficiency and causing overflow. In addition, wear and damage to the main seal ring lead to internal leakage, disrupting the sealing system and allowing fuel to escape through unintended passages. Recommended preventive measures include routine cleaning of the bowl discs according to the Planned Maintenance System (PMS), timely replacement of the main seal ring based on its service life and the manufacturer's manual, proper purifier operation in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), and regular monitoring of component conditions. The implementation of these measures is expected to improve purifier performance, maintain fuel quality, and minimize the risk of overflow during ship operations.