Kongsberg K-LC Loading Computer System

Common issues

• Loading instrument software approval lapsing or falling out of date with the vessel's current condition after a conversion or tank modification
• Mismatch between the on-board loading manual and the installed software revision after an update
• Interface faults with draft gauges or tank sounding/level sensors feeding the computer, giving unreliable input data
• Incorrect trim, stress, or stability output after hardware replacement carried out without re-approval by the issuing authority
• Backup power (UPS) failure causing loss of an in-progress calculation or corrupted data during a power dip
• Operating system or platform becoming obsolete and no longer receiving manufacturer security patches
• Operator input errors (wrong tank sounding, wrong density) not flagged because a plausibility check is disabled or misconfigured

Inspection checklist

• Verify the current approval certificate for the loading instrument is valid and matches the installed software version
• Check that annual/periodical stability instrument test results are on file and match the class-approved test conditions
• Run a known load case and compare computer output against the approved test booklet figures
• Check UPS backup battery condition and confirm it can carry the system through a normal power interruption
• Verify interfaces to draft gauges and tank sounding/level sensors are reading correctly
• Confirm backup output (printer or secondary storage) is functioning
• Check that the on-board loading manual edition matches the installed software revision
• Verify user access control and that crew operating the system have received instrument-specific training

Service intervals

Critical spares

• UPS backup battery pack
• Backup storage/data module
• Display/monitor unit
• Keyboard or operator input unit
• Network/interface card linking the computer to draft and tank sensors

Safety

• An incorrect stability or hull-stress calculation from unapproved software or hardware changes can lead to overstress or a stability incident - never operate on a version that does not match the approval certificate
• Reliance on an informal backup calculation method during a system outage without following the approved contingency procedure
• Electrical hazard when opening the cabinet - isolate power before internal work
• Cyber-security exposure if the instrument is networked to other ship systems without proper segregation

Class survey

Tankers are required to carry an approved loading/stability instrument under SOLAS and Load Line requirements; the annual verification test compares computer output against the approved test conditions in the loading manual. Re-approval by the issuing authority is required after any hull conversion, tank modification, or significant hardware/software change, and the certificate of approval together with the matching software revision must be available on board for survey.