IM-EPS Level Indicating System, Pressure Transmitter IM-ATM.1ST, IM-ATM.ECO, Submersible Pressure Transmitter IM-ATM.1ST/N, IM-ATM.ECO/N

Common issues

• Zero/span drift on the pressure transmitter over time, causing indicated level to disagree with actual tank content
• Diaphragm fouling or damage on submersible transmitters in dirty or viscous cargo
• Cable/gland water ingress on submersible units causing erratic or failed readings
• Blocked or restricted sensing connection on non-submersible pressure transmitters
• Power supply or 4-20mA signal loop faults causing loss of indication
• Corrosion of transmitter housing or connector in the tank/deck environment
• Calibration mismatch after transmitter replacement if tank geometry/density parameters are not re-entered

Inspection checklist

• Compare indicated level against manual sounding/ullage on a representative sample of tanks
• Check transmitter cable and gland for damage, corrosion, or signs of ingress
• Verify loop power supply voltage and signal current at the transmitter
• Check zero reading with tank empty or at a known reference level where practicable
• Inspect transmitter housing and mounting for mechanical damage
• Confirm high level and high-high level alarm setpoints against the cargo/ballast plan requirements
• Check the indicating unit/display for fault codes or diagnostic alarms
• Review calibration records and last calibration date

Service intervals

Typical intervals for this design class, not the manufacturer’s figures for your model. The manufacturer’s manual is binding.

Critical spares

• Pressure transmitter (correct range/type - 1ST or ECO variant as fitted)
• Cable gland and sealing kit
• Signal cable
• Fuses/loop protection devices for the indicating unit

Safety

• Level indicating and high-level alarm systems on cargo tanks are safety-critical - do not disable without a documented risk assessment and management of change
• Work on submersible transmitters in cargo tanks requires gas-free/enclosed space entry procedures where applicable
• Confirm any replacement transmitter carries the correct hazardous area (Ex) rating for the tank

Class survey

Note: catalogued under 'Radar Level Gauge' but the products described (IM-ATM.1ST/ECO and submersible variants) are hydrostatic pressure transmitters, not radar gauges - content above addresses the actual product. Cargo tank level and high-level alarm systems are typically included in cargo/ballast system surveys and overfill protection verification where applicable; the DNV type approval certificate should be checked for validity and correct model/range at survey.

Estimated lifetime: Electronic level transmitters of this type are typically given a service life in years rather than running hours by makers (often on the order of 10 years before recommended replacement/overhaul), with calibration and diaphragm condition as the limiting factors rather than mechanical wear.