4 Test Specification
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - Resolutions - Marine Environment Protection Committee - Resolution MEPC.5(XIII) - Specifications for Oil/Water Interface Detectors - (adopted on 13 June 1980) - 4 Test Specification

4 Test Specification

  4.1 The interface detector should be set up and used according to the manufacturer's operating instructions.

  4.2 The test facility should consist of a container whereby the obtained oil/water interface can be made clearly visible. The depths of the oil and water layers should each be at least sufficient to completely immerse the detector probe.

  4.3 The accuracy of the detector should be determined by comparing its indication against the position of the known interface between the oil and water.

  4.4 The following oils, or their equivalents, should each be used in combination with fresh water (density 1.000), brackish water (density 1.012) and salt water (density 1.025) at ambient temperature:

  • Leaded automotive gasoline- (regular grade)
  • Light diesel oil- (No. 2 fuel)
  • Arabian light crude oil- (medium density and viscosity)
  • Residual fuel- (bunker C or No. 6 fuel)

  4.5 Each test whereby the properties of either the oil or water have been changed should begin by establishing the position of the interface after sufficient time has been allowed for the oil to settle. Following each test, the detector should be cleaned.

  4.6 If oil contamination has an effect on the accuracy or the responding time of the detector, it should be stated in the test report.

  4.7 The effect of temperature on the detector response should be tested with Arabian light crude oil, or equivalent, in combination with salt water (density 1.025) both at ambient temperature and at 50°C. Any effect of temperature on the responding time should be stated in the test report.

  4.8 The satisfactory functioning of the permanently installed detector should not be affected by the movements and vibrations experienced on board ship. In particular, electrical or electronic detectors should be tested to show that they are at least capable of continued operation under vibration conditions as follows:

  • .1 from 2 Hz to 13.2 Hz with an amplitude of ± 1 mm; and

  • .2 from 13.2 Hz to 80 Hz with an acceleration amplitude of ± 0.7 g.

Additionally the equipment should be capable of reliable operation at angles up to 22.5° in any plane from the normal operational position.

  4.9 The following information should be included with the test report:

  • .1 the manufacturer's specification and operating instructions;

  • .2 a diagrammatic description of the test rig;

  • .3 types of oils used;

  • .4 densities of water used;

  • .5 details of all tests performed.


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