Aux 1 Unit 1 Q1

A remotely operated quick closing valve (ROQC) is a critical safety device found on super yachts (and other vessels). It is designed to swiftly and effectively shut off the flow of fuel or other potentially hazardous liquids in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or a leak.  

1. Quick closing valve systems / Emergency Shut-Off – FJ | Fernández Jove

fernandezjove.com

Key features and operation:

• Remote operation: The valve can be closed from a safe distance, typically from the bridge or a control station, using a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical control system. This allows for quick action in dangerous situations without putting crew members at risk.   1. Beware of fuel oil quick closing valve deficiencies – The International Institute of Marine Surveying www.iims.org.uk
• Quick closing: The valve is designed to close rapidly, often within seconds, to prevent the spread of fire or the release of harmful substances into the environment.
• Fail-safe mechanism: Many ROQCs have a fail-safe mechanism that ensures the valve will close automatically in the event of a power failure or loss of control signal.

Common locations:

• Engine rooms: To isolate fuel lines to the engines.
• Fuel tanks: To prevent fuel spills in case of damage to the tank or fuel lines.
• Other hazardous areas: Anywhere there’s a risk of fire or leakage of hazardous substances.

Importance:

• Fire safety: ROQCs play a vital role in containing fires onboard by quickly stopping the flow of fuel, which is a key component in fire spread.
• Environmental protection: By preventing leaks and spills, ROQCs help protect the marine environment from pollution.
• Crew safety: The ability to operate these valves remotely keeps crew members away from potential hazards during an emergency.

Regulations:

Flag state and classification society rules: Additional requirements might apply depending on the vessel’s flag state and classification society.

SOLAS: The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) mandates the use of quick-closing valves in certain locations on ships, including super yachts.

You’ll likely find remotely operated quick closing valves (ROQCs) in several crucial locations onboard a superyacht due to their vital safety function. Here are some common areas and the reasoning behind their placement:

Engine Room:

• Fuel Lines: ROQCs are installed on the main fuel lines leading to the engines. In case of a fire or leak in the engine room, these valves can be closed remotely to cut off the fuel supply and prevent the fire from spreading or intensifying.
• Other Hazardous Systems: ROQCs might also be used on lines carrying other flammable or hazardous liquids in the engine room, such as lubricating oil or hydraulic fluid.

Fuel Tanks:

• Tank Outlets: Valves are typically located at the outlet points of fuel tanks. This allows for quick isolation of a tank in case of damage or leakage, preventing further fuel spills and reducing fire hazards.
• Vent Lines: Some vessels may have ROQCs on fuel tank vent lines to prevent the release of flammable vapors in an emergency.

Other Hazardous Areas:

• Galley: ROQCs might be found on gas lines leading to the galley to quickly shut off the gas supply in case of a fire or leak.
• Paint Locker: If flammable paints or solvents are stored onboard, ROQCs may be installed on associated piping or ventilation systems.
• Other Machinery Spaces: Any area containing machinery or systems with the potential for fire or leakage of hazardous substances could have ROQCs installed.

Why These Locations?

• Fire Safety: The primary reason for placing ROQCs in these areas is to enhance fire safety. By quickly isolating the fuel or hazardous substance source, the crew can significantly reduce the risk of fire spread and protect the vessel and its occupants.
• Environmental Protection: ROQCs help minimize pollution by preventing spills and leaks of fuel and other hazardous substances into the marine environment.
• Crew Safety: Remote operation allows crew members to activate these valves from a safe distance, keeping them away from danger zones during emergencies.

Remember that the specific locations and number of ROQCs on a vessel can vary depending on its size, design, and the regulations applicable to its flag state and classification society.

Testing of Remotely Operated Quick Closing Valves (ROQCs) is a critical aspect of superyacht safety, ensuring these vital devices are ready to function effectively in an emergency. Testing procedures typically involve both local and remote operation, and should be carried out regularly as part of a planned maintenance program.

Here are the common methods used to test ROQCs:

1. Local Operation Test:

• Manual Operation: Crew members physically operate the valve at its local position to verify it can be opened and closed manually. This ensures the valve’s mechanical components are in working order and can be used as a backup in case of remote system failure.
• Local Release Mechanism Test: The local release mechanism, usually a lever or handle, is activated to test the valve’s ability to close quickly and completely.

2. Remote Operation Test:

• Remote Control Panel: The ROQC is activated from its designated remote control panel, typically located on the bridge or in a control station. This tests the functionality of the entire remote control system, including the control panel, actuators, hydraulic/pneumatic/electrical lines, and the valve itself.
• Alarm Verification: The test should also confirm that any associated alarms or indicators function correctly, alerting the crew to the valve’s closure.

3. Functional Test:

• System Pressure Test: For hydraulic or pneumatic systems, the pressure is checked to ensure it’s within the specified range required for proper valve operation.
• Leak Test: After closure, the valve and associated piping are inspected for any leaks, ensuring a tight seal.

4. Documentation:

• Maintenance Records: Each test should be meticulously documented, including the date, time, results, and any observations or corrective actions taken.
• Planned Maintenance System (PMS): ROQC testing should be integrated into the vessel’s PMS to ensure regular and systematic testing.

Frequency of Testing:

• SOLAS & Flag State Regulations: The minimum frequency of testing may be specified by SOLAS and the vessel’s flag state regulations.
• Classification Society: Additional requirements might be set by the classification society to which the vessel is registered.
• Vessel’s Safety Management System: The vessel’s Safety Management System (SMS) may outline specific testing intervals based on its risk assessment and operational profile.

Additional Considerations:

• Crew Training: Crew members responsible for operating and maintaining ROQCs should be adequately trained in testing procedures and emergency response protocols.
• Drills: Regular drills should include the use of ROQCs to familiarize the crew with their operation in a simulated emergency scenario.
• Spares & Maintenance: Adequate spare parts should be maintained onboard, and valves should be regularly inspected and serviced to ensure they remain in good working condition.

By adhering to rigorous testing protocols and maintenance procedures, superyacht crews can ensure that their ROQCs are always ready to perform their critical safety function, protecting the vessel, its crew, and the environment.