ANALISIS PENYEBAB TURUNNYA KINERJA BURNER DALAM MEMPERTAHANKAN PROSES PEMBAKARAN PADA BOILER DI MV. PAN JINJU

Abstract

This study was motivated by the decline in burner performance of the boiler on board MV. PAN JINJU, which was characterized by reduced steam production, increased fuel consumption, and unstable combustion processes. These problems have the potential to disrupt ship operations and reduce boiler efficiency. The purpose of this study was to identify the causes of carbon deposit accumulation on the rotary cup burner component and to analyze the causes of the widened electrode gap that affects spark quality during the boiler combustion process. This research employed a qualitative descriptive method with data collection techniques consisting of observation, interviews, and documentation studies conducted during sea practice aboard MV. PAN JINJU. Data analysis was carried out using the Fishbone Diagram to identify the root causes of the problems and the USG (Urgency, Seriousness, Growth) method to determine the priority of the identified issues. The results showed that carbon accumulation on the rotary cup burner was caused by incomplete combustion, influenced by inadequate maintenance practices, low fuel supply pressure, unstable fuel temperature and viscosity, and limited technical understanding of the boiler system among engine personnel. Meanwhile, the widened electrode gap was primarily caused by continuous mechanical vibrations of the burner and uneven thermal expansion, which resulted in the loosening of the electrode adjusting screw. Based on the evaluation of alternative solutions, the selected corrective action for carbon accumulation was scheduled and documented cleaning of the rotary cup burner using a carbon remover solution, as it was considered more effective and efficient than component replacement. To address the widened electrode gap, calibration using a vernier caliper in accordance with the manufacturer's manual was selected, with an electrode gap of 3–4 mm and a distance of 10 mm between the electrode tip and the atomizer. This method was proven capable of producing an optimal spark and improving the reliability of the combustion system. Based on the findings, it is recommended that ship personnel perform routine burner maintenance according to the established schedule, enhance monitoring of flame quality and fuel parameters, conduct periodic inspection and calibration of the electrodes in accordance with the manual book, and improve the quality of handover procedures among technicians to facilitate early detection of system abnormalities. These measures are expected to maintain the reliability and operational safety of the boiler system.