Thames Side-Maywood worked closely with Malin to develop an oil-filled transducer surrounded by vanes. The oil dampens vibrations and the vanes dissipate heat, providing a stable reading. The data provided by the transducer is invaluable for maintaining the engine, keeping mechanical and thermal stress as low as possible.

Balancing is extremely important in powerful ships' engines. They must be timed correctly to avoid destructive mis-firing. The Malin 6000 uses the transducer to provide a pressure trace which is synchronised with the rotation of the engine. As well as helping to balance the cylinders, the rate and final value of the pressure can help to improve the engine's fuel consumption. They indicate the quality of cylinder sealing, deficiencies in components such as piston rings, and any reduction of turbo performance. The system has proved successful for Malin, showing if all cylinders are compressing properly, if injection is progressing correctly and helping to fix the ignition point more accurately for improved fuel economy. It relieves undue stresses on engine components, thereby reducing engine failure and lengthening service intervals.

MJ Information No: 18223