How to Assess the Durability of Marine Automation Equipment

When it comes to marine operations, there’s one thing we can’t compromise on — durability. Whether it’s a coastal cargo ship, naval vessel, or fishing trawler, your marine automation equipments must survive the harshest conditions: saltwater, humidity, constant vibration, and extreme temperatures.

At Hindustan Marine, we often hear this question from vessel owners and engineers across India — “How do we know if this marine automation system is durable enough for long-term use?”

In this blog, we’ll walk you through exactly how to assess the durability of marine automation equipment — in a simple, practical way.

Introduction to Marine Automation Equipment

Marine automation equipment includes a wide range of components like:

• Engine control systems

• Power management systems

• Fuel monitoring sensors

• Navigation and propulsion control units

• Alarm & monitoring systems
  

In India, these are increasingly used not just by large commercial ships but also by coastal fleets, ports, defence vessels, and offshore platforms.

But here’s the thing — automation without durability is a ticking time bomb.

Why Durability Matters in Marine Automation Systems

Durability is not just about long life. It’s about:

• Minimising downtime in the middle of the sea

• Reducing costly repairs in high-risk environments

• Maintaining consistent performance under rough weather and mechanical stress

• Ensuring crew safety with reliable fail-safe mechanisms
  

A 2022 study by MarineInsight found that 35% of onboard automation failures were due to environmental degradation of equipment that wasn’t properly rated for marine conditions.

Key Factors That Affect the Durability of Marine Automation Equipment

1. Material Quality

Choose systems made with marine-grade stainless steel, aluminium alloys, or corrosion-resistant plastics.

2. Seal Protection (IP Ratings)

Go for IP67 or IP68-rated components that are dust-tight and waterproof.

3. Temperature Tolerance

Check if the equipment can operate in Indian summer heat (up to 55°C) and deep-sea chills.

4. Corrosion Resistance

Saltwater corrosion is real. Equipment must be treated with anti-corrosive coatings or marine-specific painting systems.

5. Vibration and Shock Resistance

Equipment should be tested to withstand engine vibration and hull movement.

6. Electrical Surge Protection

Protection against voltage fluctuations and lightning is crucial in monsoon regions like the Indian coastline.

How to Assess Durability Before Purchase

Here’s a checklist we use at Hindustan Marine before recommending any product:

• Ask for certification like IEC 60068, ABS, DNV, or IMO compliance

• Request lab test reports and field performance data

• Confirm if the equipment is designed for marine-grade conditions, not just industrial

• Look for a minimum 3–5 year warranty

• Enquire about local support and service in India
  

Pro Tip: Avoid low-cost systems that only work well in labs, but fail under real-life marine pressure.

Onboard Testing and Inspection Methods

Even after installation, you should regularly inspect your automation systems. Here are some methods:

• Visual Inspection: Check for rust, loose wiring, or signs of wear

• Electrical Testing: Use a multimeter to test current flow and continuity

• Operational Load Test: Simulate full load conditions

• Vibration Test: Look for signs of rattling or loose parts during engine run

• Environmental Simulation: Check cooling, moisture protection, and ventilation
  

Doing this once a quarter can increase equipment life by 20–30%.

Common Durability Standards in Marine Automation Equipment

Make sure your equipment complies with:

• IP67/IP68 – For water and dust protection

• MIL-STD-810H – For shock, humidity, and temperature

• IEC 60068 – Environmental testing standard

• ISO 9001/14001 – Manufacturing and environmental processes

• BIS Certification – For Indian-supplied electronic components

Maintenance Practices That Extend Durability

Durability isn’t just about what you buy — it’s about how you maintain it.

• Clean contact points every month

• Apply anti-rust coating on external panels

• Calibrate sensors every 6 months

• Check emergency automation functions quarterly

• Ensure moisture control with proper ventilation and dehumidifiers
  

Automation systems with good maintenance can last 10+ years, even in high-salinity zones like Kochi or Visakhapatnam.

Questions to Ask Your Marine Automation Supplier

Before you place an order, ask:

• What’s the expected life of this product in marine conditions?

• Is it tested for Indian coastal temperatures and salinity?

• What’s the warranty coverage on electronic failure?

• Can I get support or replacements locally?

• Do you offer training on maintenance?
  

At Hindustan Marine, we’re happy to answer all of the above — and more.

Future Trends in Durable Marine Automation

The industry is evolving fast. Here’s what’s coming:

• Nano-coating technology for anti-corrosion

• Modular automation panels for easy upgrades

• AI-driven fault prediction to reduce unplanned failures

• Solar-powered sensors for energy efficiency

• Remote diagnostics from onshore control rooms
  

Investing in future-ready systems today ensures savings tomorrow.

Conclusion and Expert Advice

Durability isn’t just about building tough — it’s about smart choices.

✔ Look for marine-rated certifications
✔ Test and inspect regularly
✔ Choose brands with real marine field experience
✔ Partner with companies like Hindustan Marine that understand Indian conditions

Let your automation system work with the sea — not against it.

FAQs

1. How can I test if my marine automation system is durable?
   Check certifications, run operational tests, and visually inspect for corrosion, overheating, and wire damage.
2. What’s the minimum IP rating recommended for marine electronics?
   IP67 is the minimum. For submersible or high-exposure applications, IP68 is better.
3. Can I use industrial automation systems for marine purposes?
   Not recommended. Marine systems are specifically designed to handle salt, humidity, and vibration.
4. How often should marine automation systems be maintained?
   Basic checks should be done monthly, with full system audits every 6 months.
5. Does Hindustan Marine provide installation and after-sales support?
   Yes, we provide complete solutions — from consultation and supply to setup, training, and service.