The anti-heeling system of a ship automatically detects the heeling angle of the ship and compensates for the same. This allows vessels to have continuous loading and unloading cargo operations without stopping in between for list correction, saving considerable time at the port.
In this system, ballast tanks are internally connected to each other by means of pipelines, automatic valves, and control systems. When the ship heels to any of the sides, the heeling sensor sends a signal for the change of the ship’s angle with respect to the ship’s upright position to the master control panel. This change in the heeling angle is compensated by auto-transferring the water from the heeled side to the other side of the ship, making the vessel upright.
Level control switches are also installed in the ballast tank involved with the anti-heeling system to avoid low level or overfilling and hence over-pressurizing the tanks.
Types of Anti-Heeling System
- Pneumatic system: This system comprises an air purging arrangement and regulating valve system to force air on the top of the ballast tank. The air is forced on one tank and purged from the other, making the water rapidly flow from the pressurized to the purged tank. This transfer of water is used to upright the vessel in quick time.
- Water pump system: The pump system consists of an electrically motor-driven water pump, which can be a reversible or non-reversible pump, connected with remote-controlled valves that can direct ballast water flow between the tanks.
Advantages of Anti-Heeling System:
- Allows safer and rapid cargo loading and unloading.
- Shortens harbor time and saves port dues.
- Reduces damage to ramp, rolling cargo, and containers.
- Ensures the safety of the ship and personnel.