Användning av selektiv katalytisk avgasrening inom Svensk handelssjöfart

Abstract

The Swedish shipping industry is moving towards stricter emission requirements and the vessels are able to use after treatment systems for reducing harmful emissions and to create global sustainability. This case study deals with the dominant aspects of the SCR method, Selective Catalytic Reduction, which is used aboard a couple of the Swedish ships. The system purifies exhaust gases from emission particles and has the benefits to reduce the environmental impact from ships. Previous research indicates that it has been some deficits with the SCR-system and this study continues to analyze and evaluate how the situation looks today. The study is based on the method qualitative semi-structured interview, which allowed personal contact with operators, technical managers and suppliers of the SCR-system. From the specific target group, the study shows that several factors influence the choice of method for after treatment, to which extend the system is used and how the emission requirements are being met. Some approaches of the study are the purification efficiency, cost aspects, technical difficulties, technical development, educational training for users/operators and the human factor during the operation. The SCR-system is not considered as a safety-critical system, therefore conclusions from the study shows that knowledge barriers exist, which indirectly affects the operation. The human factor during operation has a major impact as well as the knowledge that is passed between crew members. Conclusions regarding the technical aspects are highlighted as well, which indicates that design flaws exist but development of SCR-systems are continuous. The question is what the Swedish shipping industry are willing to do in order to meet today's demands of protecting the environment.