IACS Updates UR M10 to Enhance Safety Against Crankcase Explosions

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) emphasizes the importance of addressing safety risks as the maritime industry transitions to alternative fuels to meet environmental regulations and sustainability goals. One critical hazard in engine operation is crankcase explosions, which become even more concerning with the use of gas and low flashpoint fuels. To address this issue, IACS has released Revision 5 of Unified Requirement (UR) M10, which introduces new safety requirements to protect internal combustion engines from crankcase explosions.

The latest edition of UR M10 builds upon existing safety standards essential for safeguarding against crankcase explosions. It includes requirements for constructing crankcases to withstand internal pressures generated by potential explosions. For engines with a crankcase volume exceeding 0.6 m³, additional explosion relief valves are necessary to manage excess pressure safely. These valves must comply with type testing procedures outlined in IACS UR M66 to ensure they meet unified technical requirements for safety.

In collaboration with key industry stakeholders, including engine manufacturers, IACS has introduced improvements in the latest edition of UR M10 to address safety requirements specific to engines fueled by gas or low flashpoint fuels. These enhancements include specifying technical conditions for external airflow into the crankcase, defining the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) for gas, fuel vapors, or mixtures, and implementing measures to prevent interference with critical safety devices during crankcase pressure control. Additionally, predefined measures for reducing the risk of crankcase explosions, classification of engine bearing monitors as essential safety components, and documentation of safety measures’ effectiveness are now required for engines fueled by gas or low flashpoint fuels.

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