Power Management System Retrofit for a Coastal Research Vessel

Electropneumatic SA., ComAp’s trusted partner in Greece, has been a leading provider of marine electrical and automation systems since 1983. When a coastal research vessel required a full retrofit of its outdated Power Management System (PMS) and Generator Safety System, Electropneumatic designed and delivered a modern, integrated solution using ComAp’s marine-certified technology. The vessel had been operating with obsolete controls that lacked essential safety features, efficient load sharing and automated operation, creating risks of downtime and limiting its ability to support time-sensitive research missions. 

To address this, Electropneumatic upgraded the control systems for all three auxiliary marine gen-sets, ensuring seamless synchronisation, accurate monitoring, reliable load sharing and comprehensive generator protection. The solution combined core components from ComAp’s marine-certified portfolio, including InteliGen NTC BaseBox controllers for control, synchronisation and protection; Inteli IO8/8 modules for expanded I/O; and InteliVision 8 Marine displays for clear parameter visualisation, supported by IP65 connectors for harsh environments. LSM+PMS dongles enabled advanced power management, while a central InteliVision 12 Touch panel provided a unified interface for system-wide monitoring and control. 

Key outcomes included stable power supply through improved diesel generator synchronisation, optimised visibility of parameters such as voltage, frequency and power factor, and strengthened safety through protection against overvoltage, overcurrent, reverse power and preferential trip conditions. Automated start and stop sequences and secure main breaker control further simplified daily operation. 

The retrofit significantly improved the vessel’s power management reliability, operational efficiency and safety, enabling uninterrupted performance during coastal research missions. Through Electropneumatic’s expertise and ComAp’s advanced control solutions, the vessel now benefits from a modern, robust PMS that supports efficient and reliable operation at sea.