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In-service experience with a computer based unmanned engine room control and watchkeeping system developed by GEC-Elliot Process Automation Ltd for the distant water freezer trawler class of the White Fish Authority is presented.

The development and use of SafeNet an information and management network being implemented by ABS for use of owners and surveyors to optimise surveys and maintenance and thus prevent or reduce the effect of failures during the life of the ship is described. The databases behind the system begin to be populated during the design and plan approval process and continue throughout the life of the ship to show the exact conditions of the ship and its systems at any time and allow for better planning and execution of surveys maintenance and repairs. Trend analysis is used to predict conditions in the future and statistical analysis across databases will enable ABS to spot any emerging trends and give timely warnings and initiate research and rule development.

The Very Advanced Propulsion (VAP) turbine plant under development by Stal - Laval is described with reference to design features of the steam plant (reheat superheat steam fluidised bed combustion triple turbine arrangement) costs especially fuel costs Potential markets for steam turbines are discussed

This three part paper examines the interaction between very large ships and port/harbour facilities. The effect of increasing ship size (depth length breadth draught) on the design layout and planning of port facilities on ship design are discussed with reference to VLCC large bulk carriers containerships RO-RO and barge carriers. Behaviour of moored ships in harbour and transportation costs are considered.

Recent international discussions in IMO and the EEC have contributed to a global dialogue on the future aims and objectives of VTS. This paper summarises the major features of VTS as perceived in international regional and national terms. A review of possible future VTS is included covering both the surveillance and communication aspects. Some particular current systems are detailed and the challenge for UK industry over the next decade with future requirements is highlighted.

Vortec Energy has developed and is now commercialising non-conventional diffuser-augmented technology for both wind and sub-sea applications. This innovative concept has several benefits over conventional technologies including the opportunity to incorporate rim generation and stator vanes in the diffuser. The development of the Vortec is discussed the product is described and associated research programmes are looked at with special emphasis on sub-sea Vortec. After extensive background information consideration is given to markets the product and the research programme.

The development of regional and coastal Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) for waters outside the jurisdiction of port authorities and pilot assistance is discussed. Design parameters for such a system must consider language difficulties diverse skills and experience levels of mariners using the system and the limit to onboard resources. Technology can be exploited to improve VTS for mariners. This paper examines some of the concerns for developing such a service and offers some solutions.

The Seajoule range of integrated automatically controlled waste heat recovery equipment comprising a waste heat exchange unit a supplementary oil fired steam supply for use during main engine downtime a steam supply for heating a vertical spindle turbo alternator and a condenser module and feed systems design installation operation and costs

Wet blast cleaning for surface preparation cleaning and removal of fouling on North Sea structures is discussed Techniques equipment practical applications use in landbased and offshore installations in tidal zones and under water considered

Interaction of water with glassy polymers discussed and studied in samples of cast sheet and rod PMMA Water uptake diffusion constants tensile/compression properties fracture toughness and microstructure were determined

Simulators are categorised according to their primary functions: training research and design and maintenance and then commercial or civilian and military. The composition of simulators ie computer hardware and software are discussed and countries where simulators are in use are listed.

The National Council for Vocational Qualifications (NCVQ) defines competence as the ability to perform to the standards required in employment across a range of circumstances to meet changing demands. Key factors in the design of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) were: a framework of five levels job competence based on a model developed by the then Employment Department core skills in the communication application of number information technology personal skills and problems solving adaptability unpinning of skill and knowledge and effective performance. The shelf life of NVQ is dependent on the area and type of competency.

The changing nature of the merchant shipping industry is prompted by recession increasing competitiveness and specialised ships Skills and standards required of future officers are discussed

The revision of the STCW Convention is reviewed and the system which has been devised to give the Convention teeth culminating in the so-called White List is highlighted. The system comprises a list of competent persons from which the secretary-general selects a panel of competent persons who report on the information. One person is selected as being knowledgeable of the Party's system of training and the Party has their own representative present. The need for well organised reports additional information the report of the panel the report to the Secretary-General confirmation of compliance and the appeal procedure are outlined.

The work and responsibilities of the IMO in maritime casualties is mainly concerned with overseeing the implementation of International Conventions (Safety at Sea and Prevention of Pollution of the Sea by oil) and with listing and ensuring investigation of significant casualties

The WR-21 is an advanced cycle gas turbine system based on the Aero RB211 engine under development for the next generation of US Navy's warships. It has low fuel consumption low maintenance costs and flexibility of operation. It may have non-naval applications including use in large cruise ships.

An attempt is made to outline the issues surrounding year 2000 compliance auditing of vessels and contingency plans to ensure the continued safe operation of vessels based on the experiences of Lothian Shipping Services in preparing their own managed vessels for the millennium and helping other owners/managers in their preparations. Only issues relating directly to the vessel are discussed. First a look is taken at the problem and why anything should be done about it. Next what should have been done is considered followed by what has been found to date. Lastly contingency planning is discussed.

The improvement of the environmental performances of ships internationally and how to achieve this is considered. Current regulations are examined and alternative ways are explored. The approach calls for the ship to be considered as a closed system with every element of the system have set environmental requirements.