News - Marine & Offshore

Marine electronics is one of the pillars of modern maritime operations, encompassing critical systems that ensure the efficiency, safety and sustainability of vessels.

From large merchant ships to leisure vessels, electronic systems cover various areas, from engine control and safety equipment to navigation and communication. With technological advancements, challenges also arise, such as the need for specialized maintenance and continuous training for professionals.

The role of electronics in the marine sector

Electronic systems onboard have evolved to meet the demands of an increasingly complex industry. Technologies such as radars, sonars, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and electronic engine controllers have become indispensable. Additionally, the integration of sensors and software provides greater precision in operations and reduces human error.

However, with the increasing complexity of these systems, challenges also grow. Regular inspections, software updates, and preventive maintenance are necessary to ensure optimal functionality. It is also important to highlight the significance of training the teams operating these systems, especially in a scenario where there is a shortage of qualified professionals proficient in technical English.

Essential equipment in marine electronics

Various systems and equipment make up the electronic infrastructure of a vessel, each with specific and fundamental functions:

• VDR (Voyage Data Recorder): Known as the “black box” of vessels, the VDR records strategic information such as navigation data, communication and environmental conditions. It is indispensable for incident investigations and improving maritime safety.
• GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System): A global emergency communication system required on most commercial vessels. The GMDSS integrates VHF and HF radios, EPIRBs (emergency position-indicating radio beacons) and automatic transmission equipment, ensuring an efficient response in emergency situations.
• Radar: Essential for safe navigation, radar helps detect objects and obstacles in various weather and visibility conditions. On modern vessels, state-of-the-art radars are integrated with automatic systems to avoid collisions.
• AIS (Automatic Identification System): An automatic identification system that transmits and receives information about the position, speed and destination of nearby vessels, promoting safety and coordination in maritime traffic.
• ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System): Replacing paper nautical charts, the ECDIS displays detailed electronic maps and real-time navigation data, assisting in safe and efficient routing.
• Engine Control Systems: Responsible for managing onboard engines, these systems optimize performance, reduce fuel consumption and monitor critical operating conditions.

In addition to these, other essential equipment ensures the safety and efficient navigation of a vessel:

• SART (Search and Rescue Transponder): A device used to signal the location of a vessel or person in emergency situations, especially during search and rescue operations, transmitting an alert signal to rescue vessels.
• EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon): An emergency beacon that, when activated, transmits an alert signal to satellites, indicating the exact position of a vessel in distress, facilitating rescue operations.
• SSAS (Ship Security Alert System): An onboard security alert system used to notify maritime authorities in the event of an attack or threat to the vessel, without alerting the attackers.
• BNWAS (Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System): An alarm system that monitors the bridge watch, ensuring the crew remains vigilant during navigation, preventing accidents due to lack of attention.
• Gyrocompass: A crucial instrument for determining the vessel’s direction with precision, using a gyroscopic system to correct deviations and improve navigation, especially in adverse conditions.
• Autopilot: A system that allows automatic control of the vessel’s steering, reducing the crew’s effort and improving accuracy and efficiency during navigation.

These systems work together to ensure the safety, efficiency, and accuracy of onboard operations, being essential for modern navigation and the protection of vessels in various operating conditions.

Recent advances in marine electronics

Advancements in marine electronics are transforming the maritime sector, bringing benefits such as:

• Operational optimization: Integrated systems that monitor fuel consumption and reduce emissions.
• Advanced safety: Enhanced radars and AIS systems to prevent collisions.
• Automation: Solutions that allow remote control of equipment, reducing the need for manual intervention.
• Predictive maintenance: Sensors that identify failures before they become major issues.

The future points to even greater integration of electronic systems with artificial intelligence and data analytics. Smart vessels, capable of almost autonomous operation, are already a reality in some segments. Predictive maintenance, mentioned earlier, allows failures to be identified and fixed before causing operational disruptions.

Metalock Brasil services in marine electronics

Metalock Brasil offers a comprehensive portfolio of services for the marine sector, standing out for technical quality and alignment with the specific needs of its clients. Available services include:

• Software updates: Implementation of improvements in critical systems for vessels, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance with international standards.
• Equipment installation: Assembly and integration of electronic systems in new or existing vessels, focusing on compliance with standards such as SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea).
• Regular maintenance and inspections: Periodic inspections of critical systems like GMDSS and VDR to ensure proper functioning and prevent failures.
• Repairs of electronic engine controllers: Quick and effective solutions to keep engines running at full capacity.
• Emergency repairs: Rapid and effective support in ports or offshore, minimizing vessel downtime.
• Crew training: Technical training for equipment operators, promoting safer and more efficient operations.

To learn more about Metalock Brasil’s marine electronics services, visit: https://www.metalock.com.br/en.