| This system is effective for
catamarans where the engine rooms are completely separate but can
also be used in mono hull twin engine applications. One of the helm
stations (usually the main helm) is designated as the emergency
station and a key switched protected override system is installed
therein. An incident wherein a
commercial ferry fitted with Electronic Controls caught fire on its
return journey to Auckland with approximately 200 passengers on
board. Standard safety procedures were initiated, and all passengers
were safely transferred to other commercial ferries in the region.
In this accident, communication
between the two engine rooms was destroyed. The engine that was not
affected could not be activated or controlled - which would have
allowed the vessel to continue to port or if necessary a planned
grounding whenever the fire would have not been contained to an
acceptable level. It is good that the weather at that time was calm
so while the vessel was in a narrow harbor entrance, help arrived
before the vessel incurred further damage. In the past twin engine
installations have been taken for granted as the safer option but to
our knowledge the effect of electronic controls has not been taken
into consideration, should any fire accident happen.
The system complete with all
components, updated wiring diagrams for on-board records plus
instructions and suggested safety routines can be purchased for US
$690.00 door-to-door Worldwide. Our experience shows this to be a
small price to pay for the safety of passengers and crew.
To order this product please
email us, or via phone
+64 9 262 3241 and fax +64 9 262 3240.
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