American Standards for Electrical and Electronic Systems in Marine Applications

For electrical and electronic systems used for marine applications, it is important that systems are not only efficient and reliable, but also meet marine classification standards. Standards for quality, process, environment, health and safety all need to be met. The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) is the classification society in the United States that sets the standards by which all marine vessels must adhere to. Founded in 1862, its objective is to advance the safety of life, property and the natural environment in our waters. By developing standards for the design, construction and operational functions of marine-related vessels, the society ensures ABS verified facilities are safe and efficient. The ABS Rules, the core of the organization, form the basis for evaluating the design and construction of new vessels and ensuring the reliability of existing marine vessels. The ABS Rules come from principles of marine engineering, naval architecture, and other related engineering fields. ABS Rules need every classed vessel to undergo sporadic surveys to see whether it is classification standards are maintained.The classification process includes a review of the technical plan and design of the ship as well as surveys during the construction phase. This includes source inspection of all materials, equipment and machinery. After the vessel has been accepted by the Classification Committee, there are ongoing surveys to ensure any repairs and modifications are up to standards.

Everything from the outside of the ship, to the electronic system inside will determine if the ship is up to standards. There are a few key components to a vessel’s electronic system that ensures it not only meets ABS standards, but also will run efficiently and effectively. Marine electronic systems include low voltage and main switchboards, as well as closed-circuit television. Marine alarm monitoring and safety systems provide a vast range of control panels and monitoring equipment for ships. This includes engine monitoring, vessel automation, marine alarms, as well as safety systems for boats. Marine sensors increase precision to monitoring the vessel. They can include temperature sensors; pressure sensors, main propulsion and auxiliary engine sensors as well as sensors for speed, level, rudder angle, and environmental sensors, such as wind, aerials, and marine telemetry/voyage data recorders (VDR). The size of ships may vary, but what remains constant is the need for reliable technology that not only makes sea travel easy, but more importantly, safe. While the guidelines can be extensive, using a trusted source for high quality electrical systems and electronic products for the marine and shipbuilding industry ensures that all systems will easily meet standards and ensure proper certification.

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