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The OCIMF guidelines on the management of Chafe Chains for SPM

OCIMF guidelines ensure safety and efficiency in managing friction chains for SPM systems.

Published: September 9, 2024

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Introduction

Safety and efficiency in the maritime industry depend on numerous factors, from accuracy in operations to the use of appropriate equipment. In an environment where conditions can be unpredictable and challenging, every component plays an important role in avoiding incidents and ensuring stability during product transfer.

Among the components in these operations are friction chains, which ensure stability in specialized ship mooring systems. These systems, known as Single Point Mooring (SPM), are essential for safe loading and unloading operations at sea. To ensure that these chains perform their function optimally, the Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) has established guidelines that have become international standards.

What are SPM chafe chains?

Chafe chains on single-point mooring (SPM) systems are primarily used to ensure the stability and safety of vessels during offshore loading and unloading operations.

Chafe chains are designed to help connect the tanker to the mooring rope of the SPM buoy without the vessel damaging the synthetic rope.

Understanding SPM chafe chains

Technical description: SPM chafe chains are used to hold vessels in position during offshore mooring operations. These chains are designed to withstand the frictional forces generated by offshore operations and currents, waves, and wind, ensuring that the vessel remains stable during cargo transfers. Their robust design allows them to withstand extreme conditions, ensuring continuity of operations in demanding marine environments.
Operational challenges: Wear is one of the main challenges in the management of chafe chains. Constant friction, together with exposure to corrosive environments, can deteriorate chains over time, compromising their strength and functionality. This wear not only reduces the service life of the chains but also increases the risk of ship mooring system failures, which could lead to serious incidents, such as oil spills or damage to the vessel.
Importance of maintenance: To prevent these risks, it is essential to implement a rigorous maintenance program that includes regular inspections, strength testing, and timely replacement of damaged chains. Proper maintenance not only ensures the integrity of the chains but also optimizes operational safety and prolongs the life of the equipment.

History and evolution of OCIMF

It was founded in 1970 with the objective of improving safety in marine operations related to the oil industry. Over the years, OCIMF has developed a series of guidelines that have become globally recognized standards, providing a framework for best practices in SPM slick chain management. “Since 1978, OCIMF has issued recommendations for equipment used in single-point mooring systems, intending to optimize safety and efficiency in ship mooring.

Role of the OCIMF

The Oil Companies International Marine Forum (OCIMF) is a globally renowned organization that has developed rigorous guidelines to ensure safety and efficiency in marine operations, including the use of chafe chains in Single Point Mooring Systems (SPM). These guidelines, which have been adopted as international standards or marine regulations, provide a comprehensive regulatory framework that enables companies to mitigate risks and optimize their operations in the maritime domain.

One of OCIMF’s most influential documents is MEG 4 (Mooring Equipment Guidelines, 4th edition), a technical compendium that establishes best practices for the design, selection, maintenance, and operation of mooring equipment. This document focuses on ensuring safe and efficient operations, providing detailed guidelines ranging from choosing the right equipment to its maintenance and safe operation, reflecting the vast experience and knowledge accumulated in the industry.

Critical aspects of chafe chains, according to OCIMF

One of OCIMF’s most influential documents is MEG 4 (Mooring Equipment Guidelines, 4th edition), a technical compendium that establishes best practices for the design, selection, maintenance, and operation of mooring equipment. This document focuses on ensuring safe and efficient operations, providing detailed guidelines ranging from choosing the right equipment to its maintenance and safe operation, reflecting the vast experience and knowledge accumulated in the industry.
Inspection frequency: MEG 4 specifies that inspections be performed at regular intervals, depending on frequency of use and operating conditions. Daily visual inspections and more detailed examinations at quarterly or annual intervals are suggested.
Inspection methods: Chain inspections should include non-destructive testing (NDT) such as visual inspection (VT), magnetic particle (MT), or liquid penetrant (PT) to detect corrosion, possible cracks, or structural failure of links.
Replacement criteria: Chains should be replaced if critical defects are detected that may compromise their integrity, such as cracked links, excessive wear, or significant loss of thickness.
Scheduling of replacement: Based on inspections and analysis of maintenance history, MEG 4 recommends scheduling preventive replacement of chafe chains before they reach a critical state of wear.
Compatibility: When replacing chains, it is essential to ensure that the new chains are compatible with the existing mooring system and meet the required technical specifications.
Safe disposal: Chains that have been replaced should be disposed of safely to avoid inappropriate reuse.

Relevance of OCIMF guidelines in today’s industry.

Alignment with best practices: The OCIMF guidelines align with international best practices, establishing a common standard that facilitates the management of SPM chafe chains in various regions. This alignment ensures that mooring operations are conducted safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of incidents and optimizing productivity.
Economic impact: Compliance with OCIMF guidelines also has considerable economic benefits. Inspections and preventive maintenance help identify problems before they become costly failures, thereby reducing repair costs and downtime. In addition, compliance with these standards is often a requirement for insurers, which can impact insurance premiums and operational viability in international markets.
Environmental impact: OCIMF guidelines contribute significantly to environmental protection by minimizing the risk of oil spills and other incidents that could have a devastating impact on marine life and shorelines. The implementation of these standards is crucial to ensure that maritime operations are not only safe but also sustainable.

Challenges, future, and importance of the OCIMF guidelines

Implementation challenges: One of the main challenges in the implementation of the OCIMF guidelines is the variability in their application at the regional level. Differences in local regulations and in the technical capacity of operators can lead to inconsistencies in implementation, which could compromise safety. To overcome this challenge, it is essential to promote greater harmonization of regulations globally.
Technological advances: The advancement of new technologies is transforming the way chafe chains are managed. Technologies such as real-time sensor monitoring and predictive analytics are beginning to be integrated into maintenance programs, which could significantly improve the ability to detect problems before they become hazards. These advances will likely influence the future evolution of OCIMF guidelines.
Future evolution: As the maritime industry faces new challenges, such as climate change and increasing demands for sustainability, the OCIMF guidelines are likely to continue to evolve. OCIMF’s ability to adapt to these changes will be crucial to maintaining its relevance and ensuring safety and efficiency in future maritime operations.
Importance of proper management: Proper management of chafe chains, including regular inspections, maintenance, and timely replacement, is vital to avoid operational and environmental risks.

Conclusion

OCIMF guidelines are critical to ensure safety and efficiency in SPM operations, particularly with regard to chafe chains. Their implementation not only prevents serious incidents but also contributes to environmental protection and optimization of operational costs. It is essential that maritime companies continue to adhere to these guidelines and remain vigilant to regulatory updates to meet future challenges. The constant evolution of OCIMF standards ensures that the maritime industry can operate safely, efficiently, and sustainably in an ever-changing global environment.