Cargo Vessel Collision in Texas Caused by False Alarm: NTSB Report

Last year, a collision between two cargo vessels near Port Arthur, Texas was caused by a loss of propulsion due to a false alarm, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The incident occurred on August 21, 2022, when the general cargo ship Damgracht lost propulsion after its main engine shut down due to a false alarm triggered by high oil mist density sensed by its oil mist detector. As a result, the Damgracht veered into the path of the bulk carrier AP Revelin, and the two vessels collided. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the collision caused $3.4 million in damages to the AP Revelin.

The NTSB investigation revealed that the false alarm was likely caused by water vapor that had condensed in the sample, which was sensed by the oil mist detector shortly after engine maintenance was completed in high-humidity conditions. The maintenance had involved replacing a failed cylinder head gasket, which had allowed cooling water to leak into the engine’s lube oil system. The exposure of the engine’s interior sections to humid conditions likely resulted in higher levels of water entering the crankcase.

The NTSB emphasized the importance of inspecting and testing the lubricating oil system for water intrusion after engine maintenance and repair, as well as ensuring that the lube oil purifying equipment is functioning properly to remove any water or other contamination. This incident highlights the potential risks associated with false alarms and the need for proper maintenance procedures and equipment checks to prevent such accidents in the future.

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