Hydrophore System On Ship

What is Hydrophore System on ship ?

hydrophore system : It is a type of water supply system that uses a pressure tank to store water under pressure, providing a consistent water supply to the multiple areas of the vessel at distinct heights in all lines and on all vessel floors.

You Should read about fresh water generator

Why is hydrophore System on board compulsory?

We’re highlighting the importance of hydrophore systems in vessels, where freshwater demand varies across different areas. Using a centrifugal pump directly connected to the freshwater line would lead to frequent pump cycling (cutting in and off) due to low water consumption, causing system pressure fluctuations.

That’s where the hydrophore system comes in, acting as a pressurized reservoir that maintains system pressure within a specific range, thanks to compressed air assistance. This ensures a stable water supply, even with varying demand, and prevents excessive pump cycling, reducing wear and tear on the pump and improving overall system efficiency.

By providing a buffer against pressure fluctuations, the hydrophore system ensures a consistent water supply, making it a crucial component in vessel plumbing systems.

Working of Hydrophore System

As We Know that, water cannot be compressed, so using pumps alone to maintain pressure would result in constant cycling, leading to wear and tear on the pumps and system instability.

The hydrophore system, with its combination of water and compressed air, provides a good solution to this problem. By compressing the air in the cylinder, the water is pressurized, allowing for a consistent pressure throughout the system. As water is added or removed, the air compresses or expands, maintaining the pressure balance.

This approach enables systems like fire lines, sprinkler systems, and freshwater systems to maintain a steady pressure, without the need for constant pump activation and deactivation. The hydrophore system acts as a pressure regulator, ensuring a smooth and reliable water supply.

The use of a hydrophore enables the entire system to keep better a steady pressure without constant pumps starting and stopping.

Charging

a simple method to pressurize a hydrophore tank by adding compressed air. To summarize:

1. Open the vent to release any air or pressure in the tank.
2. Start the pump and fill the tank with water until it reaches about 70% capacity (visible through the sight glass).
3. Close the vent and open the valve for low-pressure air supply.
4. Quickly charge the tank to 4.5 bar air pressure.
5. Gradually increase the pressure to 5-5.5 bar (as recommended by the manufacturer).
6. Avoid overloading, which can cause water to come out of the taps.
7. Transfer the system to auto mode, where the pump will:
   • Cut in at 4.5 bar (or 2.5 bar in small vessels/industries).
   • Cut out at 5-5.5 bar.
8. Ensure water is always visible in the gauge glass during operation.

By following these steps, you can manually charge the hydrophore tank and set it to auto mode, allowing the system to regulate the water pressure and pump operation. Remember to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific pressure settings and guidelines.

Video

Mountings Of Hydrophore System

These are Mountings fitted on Hydrophore System;

1. Fresh water pump ( 1 and 2)
2. Vent
3. Suction and discharge valve
4. Non return valve
5. Hydrophore tank
6. Low pressure air line (4.5 bar)
7. Pressure switch
8. Fresh water tank
9. Pressure gauge
10. Inspection gauge
11. Gauge glass
12. Relief valve

What is the reason why the hydrophore pump is running continuously?

◆Continuous pump operation is mainly due to inadequate air pressure, so charging air as per manufacturer’s instructions

◆ Due to incorrect pressure switches or defective pressure switches.

◆ Pump problem, such as loose suction, low capacity, increased water consumption rates, etc.

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