IoT in the Maritime sector

Sea shipping is the most common mode of transport used by importers and exporters. About 75% of all transport shipments in Europe are transported by sea or ocean. With the help of the Internet of Things, opportunities arise to digitize and optimize this mode of transport. In this article we tell you about a number of interesting IoT applications in the maritime sector.

Examples of IoT at sea

Alarm on board: The use of location determination and crew health monitoring is becoming more important every year as there are fewer and fewer crew on board. For example, the safety of the crew on board can be improved by a uniform that communicates when the wearer has fallen or is lying down. In the event of an accident, a faster response is possible.

Monitoring maintenance: By monitoring equipment and machines, it is possible to predict when maintenance must take place. Alerts can also be sent when a machine needs maintenance. In this way, IoT offers insight into preventive maintenance, which can reduce the frequency and severity of repairs.

Measuring temperature in container ships: A lot of food is shipped every day in container ships. Much of this food spoils before it reaches the consumer. One of these causes is the high temperatures in the containers. With IoT sensors it is possible to monitor the temperature in containers and to keep a real-time overview of the condition of the cargo. With this application, it is possible to react more quickly to the changing temperature in the container and product damage can be prevented.

Soil growth: Everything can be measured with the help of IoT. Even the fouling on the underside of a ship or boat. By measuring the efficiency of a ship and comparing it with previously measured values, it can be shown when the bottom needs to be cleaned.

Depth measurements: By collecting sensor data from ships, the port authority can see when and where dredging is required. An up-to-date depth image can also provide insight into optimal sailing routes and speeds.

Preventing corrosion on offshore platforms: One major problem with offshore oil companies is corrosion. In steel offshore platforms, corrosion leads to damage and failure of installations, and loss of turnover. This also creates unsafe situations for the personnel because corrosion inspections are carried out with manual methods. IoT can help with this. Corrosion can be monitored in real time with the help of sensors. This helps to anticipate and prevent corrosion defects in good time.