Abstract:
ANDI BAGAS SADEWA, 2025 “Analysis of the Causes of Wall Tube Cracking in the
Furnace of the Auxiliary Boiler on Board MV. Bel Air”
This study aims to analyse the causes of cracking in the wall tube furnace of the auxiliary
boiler on board the MV. Bel Air. The auxiliary boiler is a type of auxiliary machinery that
plays a crucial role in supplying steam for various needs, including fuel heating, cargo
space heating, and accommodation purposes. However, during its operation on the MV.
Bel Air, problems such as cracking in the wall tube furnace were identified, which allowed
water to enter the furnace chamber and led to a drop in boiler pressure. The research
method employed is descriptive qualitative, using direct observation on board, interviews,
literature study, and documentation. The findings indicate that the main factor causing the
cracks was incomplete combustion in the burner. As a solution, maintenance and testing
of the burner filter were carried out based on the Planned Maintenance System (PMS) to
prevent imperfect combustion in the furnace. Further identification revealed poor quality
of boiler feedwater. The feedwater was treated using chemical additives such as
Condensate Treatment and Alkalinity Control, along with regular testing using a Boiler
Water Test Kit. The final solution was welding the cracked section of the wall tube
furnace. These measures have proven effective in preventing further cracking of the wall
tube furnace in the auxiliary boiler. This study is expected to serve as a reference for
marine engineers in making appropriate decisions to address similar issues on board.
